Bridging Science and Community: The Power of Consumer and Community Involvement in Basic Science Research
In November 2024, the Western Australia Health Translation Network (WAHTN) CCIProgram hosted a forum to explore the integration of consumer and community involvement in basic science research across Western Australia. The event featured researcher-consumer teams co-presenting on the consumer and community involvement methods used in their basic science projects.
At the event, Sue Hayes, a cancer survivor, and Dr Yu Suk Choi, an associate professor at University of Western Australia, talked about Sue’s involvement as a consumer representative and how this enriched the cell mechanobiology research Yu leads. This approach involves a consumer partnering with a basic science researcher, with the relationship central to the process. Debra Langridge, head of the WAHTN CCIProgram, emphasised the benefits of integrating lived experience into research and showcasing successful partnerships.
Here are the key points:
- Relationship is a “must-have” – this takes time to develop (i.e. as long as 4 years).
- A “Tinder-like” system helps connect and match consumers with researchers with involvement guided and supported by the CCIProgram team.
- Discussing both work-related and personal topics, fosters a deeper connection between consumers and researchers.
- Engagement between consumers and early career researchers (ECRs) helps researchers develop skills in communicating about their work with non-scientists.
- Consumers may not grasp all technical details, which is okay. The partnership between Yu and Sue exemplifies this understanding.
- To build capacity with ECRs, Sue will mentor and upskill others who might feel intimidated by initiating such partnerships.
To summarise:
- Consumer and Community Involvement impact on research:
- Consumer involvement encourages researchers to focus on translational research and treatment. Knowing the broader context and the disease’s impact on lives is valuable.
- Advice for researchers:
- Be open to establishing communication channels, be patient as it takes time.
- Advice for consumers:
- Don’t be intimidated by the science; understanding all the details isn’t necessary.