Resources to support consumer participation

2012 Conference

Abstract: The School of Population Health at The University of Western Australia and the Telethon Institute of Child Health Research have actively pursued greater consumer participation since 1998. Approximately 400 researchers, policy makers and clinicians have attended training workshops on how to implement consumer participation in research.

As a result of feedback received at a national symposium in 2008 and 16 training workshops (2009 – 2012) we have identified a shortage of resources on the practical application of participation methods. We have developed a series of 22 Factsheets aimed at meeting this need.

The Factsheets, which are based on our earlier publication Consumer and Community Participation in Health and Medical Research: A practical guide for health and medical research organisations (2007) provide concise practical guidance on the principles, methods and tools that can be employed to achieve greater involvement in research. The Fact Sheets have recently been accepted for publication on a US peer reviewed website which houses publications and resources that support participation.

We want to share the resource: the Fact sheet Series as they are considered to be applicable for use in any research organisation internationally. We will seek feedback on their applicability to other research organisations and any gaps that may be considered for future resource development.