NIHR Health Protection Research Unit launches new Public Advisory Group

The NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation at the University of Bristol (NIHR HPRU) has launched its new Public Advisory Group (PAG).

Members of the group were recruited at the end of 2020, initially to work with them on the development of their new Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) Strategy.

There are currently 11 members of the group, all from different walks of life and with a variety of backgrounds, work history, interests and PPI experience.

They each bring unique insight but also share a common commitment and enthusiasm for the development of research and the place of PPI within that process.

The purpose of the PAG is to engage with our researchers about all aspects of their work, and to collaborate, contribute and act as critical friend. This includes:

• helping to develop and prioritise research ideas;
• acting as co-applicants on funding applications; and
• overseeing and contributing to each stage of the research cycle.

The PAG will meet quarterly in a PPI café format. Researchers will be invited to present research requiring PPI input.

The PAG will also be available on an ‘as needed’ basis and not all members of the group will be involved in every project. These occasional activities will be facilitated by the HPRU’s PPI team, led by Noreen Hopewell-Kelly and Andy Gibson.

The PPI team will oversee the operation of the PAG, working with its members to ensure that they are supported and receive training or guidance as needed, so that they can confidently carry out their role.

If you are interested in becoming a PAG member, please contact [email protected].