학술논문
'Building bridges': reflections and recommendations for co-producing health research
Document Type
Academic Journal
Author
Source
Research Involvement and Engagement. December 6, 2023, Vol. 9 Issue 1
Subject
Language
English
ISSN
2056-7529
Abstract
Author(s): Vasiliki Papageorgiou[sup.1], Lindsay H. Dewa[sup.2], Jane Bruton[sup.1], Keitumetse-Kabelo Murray[sup.3], Nick Hewlett[sup.3], Wezi Thamm[sup.4], Husseina Hamza[sup.4], Pino Frumiento[sup.5], Robyn Steward[sup.5], Melissa Bradshaw[sup.5], Ellie Brooks-Hall[sup.2], Silvia Petretti[sup.4], Sarah Ewans[sup.5], Mark Williams[sup.5] [...]
Background Co-produced research is when all stakeholders, including experts by experience and researchers, work together to conceptualise, design, deliver and disseminate research to enhance understanding and knowledge. This type of participatory inquiry is being increasingly used across health research; however, it continues to be a complex area to navigate given existing institutional structures. Main body We collaborated across three independent co-produced research studies to share insights, reflections, and knowledge of our work in the fields of HIV, mental health, and disability research. We co-designed and delivered a three-hour online workshop at a conference to share these reflections using the metaphor of 'building bridges' to describe our co-production journey. We generated key principles of co-production from our different experiences working in each individual research project as well as together across the three projects. Our principles are to: (1) be kind, have fun and learn from each other; (2) share power (as much as you can with people); (3) connect with people you know and don't know; (4) remain connected; and (5) use clear and simple language. Conclusion We recommend that co-produced research needs additional funding, resource, and flexibility to remain impactful and ethical. Co-produced research teams need to be mindful of traditional power structures and ensure that the process is transparent, fair, and ethical. Addressing equality, diversity, and inclusion of traditionally underrepresented groups in research is essential as are the skills, expertise, and experiences of all members of the co-production team. Keywords: Co-production, Community participation, COVID-19, Disability, HIV, Mental health
Background Co-produced research is when all stakeholders, including experts by experience and researchers, work together to conceptualise, design, deliver and disseminate research to enhance understanding and knowledge. This type of participatory inquiry is being increasingly used across health research; however, it continues to be a complex area to navigate given existing institutional structures. Main body We collaborated across three independent co-produced research studies to share insights, reflections, and knowledge of our work in the fields of HIV, mental health, and disability research. We co-designed and delivered a three-hour online workshop at a conference to share these reflections using the metaphor of 'building bridges' to describe our co-production journey. We generated key principles of co-production from our different experiences working in each individual research project as well as together across the three projects. Our principles are to: (1) be kind, have fun and learn from each other; (2) share power (as much as you can with people); (3) connect with people you know and don't know; (4) remain connected; and (5) use clear and simple language. Conclusion We recommend that co-produced research needs additional funding, resource, and flexibility to remain impactful and ethical. Co-produced research teams need to be mindful of traditional power structures and ensure that the process is transparent, fair, and ethical. Addressing equality, diversity, and inclusion of traditionally underrepresented groups in research is essential as are the skills, expertise, and experiences of all members of the co-production team. Keywords: Co-production, Community participation, COVID-19, Disability, HIV, Mental health