Cumbria CVS and NIHR Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC) Cumberland working in partnership to build research-active communities

Working collaboratively, we have now recruited Cumberland’s newest Community Co-Researchers (CCRs)!

Working as part of Cumberland HDRC, they will be designing and carrying out research focused on tackling health inequalities in their communities across Cumberland. This research will be used to embed a culture of always using evidence when making decisions within Cumberland Council. HDRCs use research findings to understand how decisions impact on health and health inequalities, and carry out research where evidence isn’t already available.

The Community Co-Researchers are now undergoing training in research methods and project development, led by Dr. Suzanne Wilson – University of Lancashire, and explore their research interests in line with Cumberland Council Research Plan priorities. You can read the full plan and work so far here – https://www.cumbriaobservatory.org.uk/health-determinants-research-collaboration-hdrc/

Their next step after training will be connecting with others involved in HDRC work, including the research theme groups, academic partners University of Cumbria and University of Lancashire, Healthwatch, community organisations, and joining in with Cumberland Council projects to shape their areas of focus.

Later in the year, it’s time for deep dives within local communities, leading the delivery of research projects that place co-production at the core of the programme.

Cumberland HDRC Research and Innovation manager Mike Siddall – “At HDRC Cumberland, we deeply value our partnership with Cumbria CVS. Their knowledge, community connections and unwavering support for the voluntary sector are truly invaluable. Together, we’re able to deliver programmes like the Community Co‑Researchers in a thoughtful, inclusive and supportive way — getting right to the heart of the community issues that shape health.”

Bridget Johns, Operations Manager at Cumbria CVS – ““We’re excited to be working in partnership with HDRC Cumberland in delivering the Community Co Researchers project. Our key role is to provide pastoral support to the CCRs, while working closely with the HDRC team, who are delivering the research training, support and expertise. I am looking forward to seeing what research topics the CCRs choose and how their work positively influences public health policy.”

By working closely together, we’re able to support local, quality research with a shared commitment of improving health outcomes for Cumberland. Keep an eye for our updates to see how you can play a role in research to help us better understand the health issues in our area and create a lasting impact.

More about Cumberland HDRC:

The NIHR Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC) Cumberland is part of the NIHR and hosted by Cumberland Council.

The NIHR has awarded £150 million to 30 HDRCs across the UK, to provide the capacity and capability for local authorities to undertake public health research to address the wider determinants of health and health inequalities. NIHR HDRCs enable local authorities to become more research-active, embedding a culture of evidence-based decision making.

You can also follow Cumberland HDRC on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

Get in contact with Cumberland HDRC by emailing: hdrc@cumberland.gov.uk

For more information – https://www.cumberland.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/health-and-wellbeing/cumberland-health-determinants-research-collaboration-hdrc