A co-researcher approach involves people with lived experience working as equal members of a research team, actively contributing to all stages of the project alongside academic researchers. This model embeds consumers in the research process, recognising their unique insights and expertise. To support meaningful involvement, consumer co-researchers may receive training and capacity-building to develop skills in research design, data collection, analysis, and communication.
Consumer co-researchers may contribute to:
- Designing research projects
- Writing or reviewing grant applications
- Planning and conducting data collection
- Analysing and interpreting findings
- Developing implementation strategies
- Disseminating results through presentations and publications
They may also co-present at conferences and co-author reports or academic papers, ensuring that lived experience is reflected in both the process and outcomes of research.
In a study aimed at improving mental health services, researchers adopted a co-researcher approach, actively involving people with lived experience of depression and navigating the mental healthcare system as equal members of the research team. Consumer co-researchers received training in research methods and worked alongside academic researchers to co-develop interview questions, ensuring they were sensitive, relevant, and grounded in real-world experience. They also:
- Conducted semi-structured interviews with participants
- Supported data analysis and interpretation
- Helped identify key themes by drawing on their lived experience
Their involvement ensured the research findings reflected the real priorities and challenges faced by those directly impacted by mental health services. This partnership not only improved the relevance and impact of the research but also empowered consumer co-researchers through meaningful engagement in shaping change.