CO-PRO FUTURES INQUIRY WORKSHOP

This workshop will provide a space for researchers and professional services colleagues across the Universities of Liverpool, Manchester and Sheffield and UK HEIs to reflect and share their experiences of undertaking co-produced and participatory research in a university context. The workshop will be attended by those doing or supporting stakeholder and community engagement as part of a concerted effort to address institutional barriers to doing this kind of work well. 

The workshop will be held in person at the University of Sheffield on Thursday 27 June 2024, from 0930-1230 with an optional networking lunch. The venue is 38 Mappin Street (G11, Workroom 2). 

It is part of the Co-Production Futures Inquiry which aims to identify and propose measures to address barriers to participatory and co-produced research within universities.

There is a growing demand for research to work co-productively, involve different groups as ‘co-researchers’ and produce shared knowledge for social benefit. However, the institutional context for doing so within universities can present challenges.

The Inquiry therefore focuses on naming - and tackling - the challenges to co-producing research meaningfully. These may include: navigating the ethics of deep-value and sustained research relationships; how to recognise and value work within the academy; the appropriateness and fairness of funding arrangements; or how to set up and negotiate equitable partnerships. 

The workshop will include:

• An introduction to the Co-Pro Futures Inquiry
• Sharing challenges of undertaking co-produced/participatory research from within universities 
• Identifying underlying institutional barriers and potential actions that could remove them

Visual minutes will also be taken to share the discussions with those not able to attend. 

This work is supported by an award from the Research England Participatory Research Funds held at the Universities of Liverpool, Manchester and Sheffield. Reasonable travel costs can be reimbursed.

The event will be facilitated by the Co-Pro Futures Inquiry co-leads:

• Professor Catherine Durose, University of Liverpool
• Professor Beth Perry, University of Sheffield
• Professor Liz Richardson, University of Manchester

Following the workshop, the Inquiry will also involve desk-based secondary analysis, interviews, wider stakeholder meetings across sectors, and convening a high-profile panel to increase the likelihood that identified actions will be put into practice.  

We recognise that in-person attendance may not be suitable for everyone. If there is demand, an online discussion will be arranged at a later date. Please email [email protected] if you would be interested in attending an online workshop or if you need to discuss other aspects of your participation.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

38 Mappin St, 38 Mappin Street, Sheffield City Centre, United Kingdom