On Thursday, 19th September 2024 I represented Applied Research Collaboration North West Coast (ARC NWC), along with Sian Cunningham (ARC NWC Communications Officer, at Edge Hill’s Health Research Institute Showcase, held at the Faculty of Health, Social Care, and Medicine. The theme of the event was “Connecting, Collaborating, Communicating”, and it served as an opportunity to engage with various stakeholders from ARC NWC’s membership organisations.

ARC NWC’s mission is to support applied health and care research that responds to the specific needs of local populations and health and care systems. Through collaborative efforts, we aim to improve outcomes for patients and the public by fostering partnerships between academics, health and social care providers, members of the public, universities and local authorities.

Key Conversations: During the event, we had a number of productive discussions that aligned with ARC NWC’s mission to drive impact through collaboration and engagement. The following key topics were explored:

Internships for Research Development: We highlighted the internship opportunities available to individuals employed by ARC NWC member organisations. These internships are designed for those interested in learning more about research or advancing their careers in research. They provide a pathway for professional development and engagement with ongoing research projects.

CoREN (Community Research and Engagement Network): We discussed CoREN’s role in engaging with Seldom Heard Groups and explored how other attendees could become involved in this important work.

The focus was on promoting inclusive research that addresses the needs and perspectives of underrepresented communities.

Public Advisor Involvement: The role of public advisors was also a key discussion point. We received positive feedback regarding the recent Zine publication, which had been shared electronically by ARC NWC. This publication is seen as a valuable resource for public advisors, helping to promote greater understanding of ongoing research and engagement activities.

ARC2 Application Process: Attendees expressed interest in the upcoming ARC2 application, with a particular focus on the potential inclusion of mental health as a key theme. This highlighted the growing recognition of the importance of mental health within applied research and collaborative networks.

ARCFEST December 2024: We also discussed the upcoming ARCFEST in December 2024,
Strengthening Relationships with NIHR Organisations: The event provided an excellent platform to strengthen relationships with other NIHR (National Institute for Health Research) organisations across the North West Coast. Building these connections is vital for shared learning, collaboration, and the wider dissemination of research.

Personal Reflections on Public Engagement: From my own experience in public engagement, I found that face-to-face events such as this one are invaluable for promoting the work of ARC NWC. These direct interactions not only facilitate the dissemination of research but also enable meaningful discussions that can lead to the implementation of research outcomes. By sharing our work in person, we can more effectively communicate the impact of research and build relationships that will support future collaboration.

Conclusion: The Health Research Institute Showcase was a highly successful event, offering numerous opportunities to engage with stakeholders, promote ARC NWC’s work, and discuss future research initiatives. By continuing to participate in events like these, ARC NWC can ensure that its research is responsive to local needs, promotes collaboration, and leads to tangible improvements in health and care outcomes