Here at Healthwatch Essex, we are always keen to share our research skills and learn from others. We are therefore pleased to announce the foundation of our Research Ambassador Network – a scheme that invites individuals with an interest in health and social care, qualitative methods and lived experience to volunteer with us to gain experience conducting research in the voluntary sector.
Starting in October, the Research Ambassador Network will host monthly meetings. At these sessions, we will try out different research methods, assess academic literature, and conduct data analysis related to our projects. The sessions will be supplemented by a Research Forum, where external speakers with academic and clinical expertise will be invited to talk to us. Members will also be encouraged to write for our monthly Research Reflections blog, with our full support.
The Research Ambassador Network is an opportunity for members to develop their research skills in a charity setting, build connections with others from different academic and professional backgrounds, and share their own experiences and expertise in a supportive environment. The Network is open to anyone from a range of educational and professional backgrounds, including:
• Undergraduate and postgraduate (taught and research) students who are keen to gain valuable experience conducting health and social care research in the voluntary sector.
• Medical, health and social care students and staff who would like to learn more about research and the role of lived experience in transforming services.
• Professionals from a range of industries who are looking to gain more qualitative research experience, particularly relating to health and social care.
You do not need to have prior experience of research, just a commitment to learning about the role that lived experience research can play in improving health and social care. Our meetings will typically last between one to two hours at a time convenient for members. Network members will be expected to spend some time preparing for meetings, either by reading suggested literature or analysing data provided.
For more information and how to apply, click the 'Send me application details' button.
What's the duration of the opportunity?
Ongoing
Where is the opportunity based?
This is a hybrid opportunity based both online and in our office in Earls Colne, Essex (Healthwatch Essex, 49 High Street, Earls Colne, Essex, CO6 2PB).
Can students travel to the opportunity via public transport?
Yes
What attributes would your ideal volunteer have?
Friendly, approachable, keen to collaborate and learn from others, committed to learning about the role that research can play in improving health and social care
What skills would the volunteer gain?
Team work, collaborative working, sharing information, supporting others, research skills and methods, data analysis, understanding people's experiences of health and social care.