On Thursday, 6 November 2025, members of the Somerset Health Determinants Research Collaborative (HDRC) team joined a Brunch and Learn event to showcase innovative approaches to research and announce exciting new opportunities for community involvement.
The event provided a platform for the team to share how participatory research is shaping projects across Somerset. Two of our team members, Frederick and Alex took to the stage.
Frederick presented on the Breaking Barriers Study, which explores the experiences of people living with long-term health conditions and employment. The study emphasises the value of lived experience advisory partnerships, ensuring that research is informed by those directly affected.
Alex later announced the launch of community grant funding, designed to empower local groups and organisations to lead research or projects that matters to them. Please visit: Somerset Community Grants Fund for more information.
The session sparked meaningful conversations about co-production, equity in research, and the importance of community voices in shaping health outcomes. The HDRC team looks forward to working closely with partners and community groups to improve the health and wellbeing of people in Somerset.
