Public involvement in health research: Lessons learned from the Oral History in Halton Project

2012 Conference

Abstract: The Oral History of Health in Halton project was a unique collaboration involving community members, academic researchers, Halton Primary Care Trust, Halton Borough Council and Halton Voluntary Association. The study aims were twofold: to explore the local community’s historical perspectives of health and well being and to increase local voluntary groups research capacity through active involvement in research. Four lay researchers supported by an academic researcher from the University of Liverpool conducted and analysed 15 semi structured interviews using a life history approach between August 2007 and September 2008. Concurrently, an independent evaluation was commissioned to assess this collaborative process.

This presentation will focus on the outcomes of the evaluation, with particular emphasis on the lessons learned from the experiences of the lay researchers involved in the Oral History of Health in Halton project. Key points addressed will include: the motivations and expectations of the lay researchers, the benefits and challenges of being involved in a collaborative community based oral history project and the impact the process had on the lay researchers themselves and the collaboration as a whole. Best practice for effective public involvement in collaborative community based research projects will be considered.