Public engagement support for researchers
We encourage involving the public at every step of a research journey. High-quality public engagement:
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builds trust in data research
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improves research design and outcomes
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helps research better reflect public priorities and lived experiences
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is a core expectation for all ADR UK-funded projects.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your engagement, ADR UK can help.
Visit the Learning Hub
This details all you need to know when starting out in public engagement. It includes a breakdown of ADR UK's public engagement objectives, principles to follow, guidelines on how to involve the public in your research, and stories of public engagement.
Read the ADR UK Public Engagement Strategy 2021-26
This details our cross-partnership vision, objectives, and principles for public engagement.
Find out about public engagement on existing projects
Public engagement forms a core requirement for project funding at ADR UK, and we provide bespoke support to help researchers design and deliver these activities effectively.
View the PEDRI Good Practice Standards
As a founding member of the Public Engagement in Data Research Initiative (PEDRI), ADR UK has contributed to the publication of good practice standards for public involvement and engagement in data research and statistics.
How we support researchers
We offer a range of tools and tailored advice to help researchers plan and carry out meaningful engagement.
Our support includes:
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Guidance and good practice: step-by-step advice on designing engagement
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Access to public panels: help setting up, joining or consulting public groups
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Funding guidance: expectations around budgeting for engagement, and support for building it in
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Evidence base: insights from our literature review of public engagement in data research and public dialogue exploring public expectations of data research
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Case studies and resources: examples from across the UK to learn from others’ experiences
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Connections to voluntary and community organisations: support in identifying and approaching groups with relevant lived experience or community knowledge.
Learn about working with community organisations
Partnering with voluntary and community organisations can add real value to your research.
These groups bring deep insights into lived experience, helping you understand what matters most to communities, frame research questions that reflect real-world priorities, and ensure your findings are relevant, accessible and meaningful.
