Category: Funding

Professor Manuela Barreto and Camilla Rooney from Wellmoor share insights from their Social Health Learning Project – a collaboration between University researchers and community partners to explore social health interventions in East Devon. Having been shortlisted for the 2024-25 round of Engaged and Participatory Research Funding, this work was supported by an alternative funding source, as it tackled ambitions closely linked to the University’s Civic University Agreements.

Dr Kristin Liabo, Beccy Summers, and Professors Heike Roms, and Kerrie Schaefer discuss insights gained from recent work supported by the Engaged and Participatory Research Fund. This project collaborated with staff and students to identify strategies for supporting engagement with school-based education.

Dr Tomas Chaigneau tells us about his research with co-applicants Giulia Nicolini, Kerry Holbrook, and Ruth Klückers, investigating the role of communities in Cornwall’s seaweed farming industry. Their use of the 2024-25 Engaged and Participatory Research Fund helped to incorporate stakeholder perspectives, and engage both industry professionals and local communities in this project.

Ellie Scott and Dr Owen Tomlinson offer insights into their recent Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) project, using the PPIE Participant Payment Fund. As part of ongoing research into brain blood flow and vascular health, the project invited stroke survivors to engage with research investigating feasible interventions to improve patient health.

Dr Darren Hudson tells us about his recent project, using Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) Participant Payment Funding to inform studies into the effectiveness of a new MRI contrast agent. Working alongside people with lived experience, the project used public engagement to inform the future shape of this research.

Sam Godfrey talks to us about their recent use of Engaged Participatory Research Funding to support a successful art exhibition with partners, House of Annetta. Through publicly showcased art, this project explored issues around domestic security and housing inequality for trans communities.

Dr Louise Venables shares insights into a recent collaborative project, working with Dr Daniel Derbyshire, and Nicky Nicholls from Sideshore Community. Supported by the Engaged Participatory Research Fund, their work investigated the role of eco-hubs in engaging local communities with critical social issues.

Ange Brennan, Public Engagement and Communications Manager for the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, speaks to us about an ongoing collaboration between mycology researchers and Exeter College. This project invites the college’s textile students to explore the Centre’s research through art, giving both students and academics new insights into their work.

Kelly Kleinstuber tells us about her public engagement work for the PROTECT project, a nationwide study investigating ageing brain health. With support from the Springboard Fund, this wide-reaching project has brought in new public involvement through its PPI Ambassador programme.

Lauren Asare shares how she used Springboard Funding to support her ongoing investigation into the lived experiences of thyroid disease patients. With a background in Public and Patient Involvement and Engagement (PPIE), Lauren provides valuable insights into the health applications of public engagement, and since acquiring this award, has obtained funding to continue her research through a PhD.