The Health, Innovation and Wellbeing Research Community at the University of Westminster has held an interactive workshop to explore how research can be more inclusive, collaborative and rooted in real-world experience. Bringing together community leaders, public contributors and academic researchers, the team aimed to co-design a roadmap for research that begins not in the lab, but in the lived realities of the public and evolves in genuine partnership with academia.
The event focused on the principles of Public and Patient Involvement (PPI), co-production and community-led research. With research agendas often shaped within the walls of universities, detached from the voices and priorities of the communities they intend to serve, this workshop challenged that model by creating space to talk about how universities can become more accessible, responsive and collaborative.
Through the meeting five lessons were learnt to help drive this change. The first lesson was that ideas start everywhere, not just in universities. Innovative research questions often arise from the lived experiences of individuals and communities, not just from academic theory. For universities to remain relevant, they must actively listen to ideas emerging outside of their own institutions and be willing to support and nurture them.
They also found that universities must be more approachable. There is a widespread perception that universities are closed and formal institutions, where only academics belong. This perception can act as a barrier, preventing community-led research from gaining traction. By taking down these barriers, universities can become trusted partners in studies that truly reflect diverse societal needs.
Also discussed was the importance of meeting people where they are. Rather than expecting communities to attend university-hosted events, academics should co-create events within those communities. Research should be a two-way street, one that begins with mutual respect and shared ownership, not just an invitation.
Further to this the group found that lived experience is a form of expertise. Research should reflect the complexity of human experience and act as a vehicle for self-expression. They discussed that academia has a responsibility to democratise knowledge and share the tools of inquiry with everyone, not just those who have had the privilege of academic training. Science must become more inclusive, welcoming diverse perspectives and lived realities.
Finally, they identified that support for community-led research is essential. Academics can play a key role in helping communities access funding and understand how research can generate meaningful change. Offering free short courses, mentoring and guidance on the research process can empower individuals from all backgrounds to take an active role in shaping the studies that affect their lives.
Dr Tom Nadarzynski, Senior Lecturer in the School of Social Sciences, explained: “In a world increasingly driven by AI and automation, it is more important than ever to champion collaborative research. Research that truly supports health and well-being must be rooted in meaningful relationships. At the University of Westminster, we are committed to building strong connections with diverse communities to ensure our studies are not only impactful, but also relevant to the real needs of society.”
This initiative directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 10: Reduced Inequalities, 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Find out more about Research Communities at the University of Westminster.
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