Community organisations help shape research

Community organisations and researchers have come together at Teesside University to formulate and contribute to research which will be vital in helping them achieve their respective goals.

Nearly 40 representatives from a variety of community groups, third sector organisations and University staff attended the first in a series of participatory research events organised by the University.

The event engaged attendees in discussion around the unique challenges facing communities in the Tees Valley and how the University can support them through focused and impactful research; ensuring that research conducted by the University is supported and shaped by the communities it impacts.

The University has received funding from UK Research and Innovation’s (UKRI) Participatory Research Fund to support local community groups to be involved in developing research which will support them in their objectives. 

The event was organised through Teesside University’s Community Hub, which serves as a gateway for community, voluntary, and public sector organisations to access the full range of skills and services the University can provide and to collaborate on projects and funding opportunities.

It also contributes to the University’s People and Place research pillar, one of the three key interdisciplinary areas of strategic focus for its research.

Dr Kieran Fenby-Hulse, Associate Dean for Research and Innovation in the School of Social Sciences, Humanities & Law, who leads the People and Place initiative, said: “Teesside University is dedicated to supporting our communities through research which is underpinned through engagement with the people and the organisations it impacts.

“Therefore, we were delighted to see such a wide cross section of our voluntary and community sector take part in our participatory research event.

“Engaging members of the community in participatory research strengthens the outcomes of our research by providing greater agency to those communities to implement its findings.”

Teesside University Community Engagement Manager Rex Elston added: “This was the first in a new series of events being planned by the new University Community Hub team which will include workshops, masterclasses and networking opportunities designed to support the voluntary and community sector.

“We were delighted to see so many organisations keen to engage with the University and get actively involved in shaping research that will create positive change in the community.

“We are keen to hear from anyone who wants to be involved in future events whether that be attending, speaking or suggestions for themes that will be valuable across the voluntary and community sector.”

Dr Oliver Moss, Head of Research and Impact, added: “This event was a great way for us to meet key members of our community and forge relationships that will lead to really positive and productive research partnerships in the future.”

If you would like to attend a future event or learn more about the Teesside University Community Hub, contact tuchub@tees.ac.uk

ENDS

Photos

• Dr Kieran Fenby-Hulse, Associate Dean for Research and Innovation in the School of Social Sciences, Humanities & Law, speaking at the event.

• Gillian Mooney, Senior Impact and Engagement Manager, speaking at the event

• University researchers and community groups coming together at the Teesside University Participatory Research Fund Introduction event.

David Roberts, Communications Officer, 07584-490244, david.roberts@tees.ac.uk