Inclusive Research

Creative Inclusion: Co-producing creative activities to explain research concepts

This Research England funded project aimed to address the barrier of inaccessible language in research for learning-disabled people. The project co-produced creative activities that explain key research terms in collaboration with the Purple Research Group (a team of learning-disabled researchers) and Purple Patch Arts (a creative learning organisation for learning-disabled people). The Creative Inclusion toolkit aims to support researchers/organisations to implement these activities within their own practice.

More information:
Creative Inclusion webpage
Purple Patch website

Embodying Fatigue: Creative approaches to understanding, amplifying and addressing the psychological, social and relational impacts of recurrent fatigue in adults with long-term health conditions

This ongoing research project, led by a researcher and artist who themselves have lived experience of fatigue, advances inclusive research practices by centring the voices of individuals with fatigue across a range of long-term health conditions. Through collaborative, arts-based methods, the project seeks to improve psychosocial outcomes and generate meaningful outputs that benefit both participants and wider communities affected by chronic forms of fatigue.

More information:
Embodying Fatigue podcast
Iconic fatigue webpage

Inclusion Health in Undergraduate Medical Education

This PhD research aims to co-create evidence and practical recommendations to strengthen Inclusion Health teaching in undergraduate medical education. A key component is a photovoice study aiming to empower participants from socially excluded groups to share their experiences of healthcare through photography. This approach advances inclusive research practices by amplifying voices often left out of research and ensuring their perspectives shape medical education.

More information:
Inclusion Health scoping review publication

The Polymyalgia Paradox project

The Polymyalgia Paradox project investigated why polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), a common inflammatory condition in older adults, is less-often diagnosed in the North of England compared to the South, despite global data suggesting higher PMR prevalence in more northerly latitudes. Led by Dr Sarah Mackie in partnership with the charity PMRGCAuk, the project used creative methods to uncover lived experiences of PMR. The work connected clinicians, researchers, and patients and challenged inequalities in PMR diagnosis, care and support, particularly amongst under-served groups in the North of England.

More information:
Polymyalgia Paradox final report