PPI and Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Wellbeing (EDIW)

People involved in health and social care research often don't reflect those who are most in need of support. Underserved groups, often facing demographic and socioeconomic challenges, experience greater health inequalities. Ensuring their voices are included in research is vital to addressing these disparities and creating more equitable health outcomes for all.

Proactive efforts are essential to ensure the inclusion of diverse communities, backgrounds, and perspectives in both research participation (taking part in the research) and PPI.

Researchers need to reflect on and adapt their approach to PPI for each activity they undertake to ensure that the research activity is relevant to the community they are meeting, i.e. a ‘one size fits all approach doesn’t usually work’.  

By reaching out and meeting communities where they are, we can foster trust, ensure inclusivity, and generate research that truly reflects the needs and experiences of all groups.

A shared commitment to improving PPI

In March 2022, Universities UK, of which the University of Liverpool is a member, signed a new ‘share commitment’ to improve PPI in health and social care research. 

This means we are committed to listening to and learning from the people and communities we involve and apply and share that learning; build and share the evidence of how to involve patients and the public and what impact this has; support improvements in equality, diversity, and inclusion in public involvement; and promote the UK Standards for Public Involvement that includes six key areas:

• Inclusive opportunities
• Working together
• Support and learning
• Governance
• Communications
• Impact.

Learn more about our Faculty EDIW Researcher Toolkit.