Why join the Voice and Insight Panel?

The Voice and Insight Panel is working to bridge the gap between research and the everyday realities of patients, carers and members of the public. Lived experience is essential to meaningful research, and we’re committed to ensuring it genuinely shapes what we do. Learn more about who we are and how we work.

By joining the panel, you will:

Learn about research

You’ll receive regular emails that explain how healthcare innovation and improvement research works,  in simple, accessible terms.

No jargon. No pressure. Just helpful knowledge.

Build confidence to get involved in research

If you’ve ever thought, “I’m interested, but I’m not sure what I can offer,” this community is designed for you.

We share tips, real examples, and simple steps that help you feel confident using your lived experience in a research setting.

Hear about real research opportunities – but only when you’re ready

You’ll see invitations to:

• shape research projects

• review study materials

• participate in involvement groups

• take part in research studies

There’s never any obligation to respond – you choose what feels right for you.

Make your voice count in improving healthcare

Your experiences and insights can directly influence how research questions are chosen, how studies run, and how results are interpreted.

Joining gives you a meaningful way to help make healthcare better for others.

Is this the right research community for you?

This community is for you if you:

• are over 18 years of age
• want to understand more about healthcare innovation and improvement research
• are interested in patient and public involvement (PPI) but unsure where to start
• would like to hear about opportunities to shape research or take part in studies
• want to feel confident about contributing your lived experience
• live in the UK

People join from all walks of life and with all levels of experience – including those completely new to research.

You might prefer to wait if:

• you are actively processing trauma from a health event
• revisiting your story feels overwhelming or unsafe
• you’re in a therapeutic programme where recovery needs priority

You can always join later, the door stays open.

Our decision tree may help you reflect on whether this is the right community for you.

What you can expect

You’ll receive regular, easy-to-read emails that include:

• Short explainers to help you learn about patient and public involvement (PPI)
• Tips to build confidence and skills
• Real examples of involvement making a difference
• Opportunities to be part of research
• Stories from members sharing their own journey

There is no cost, no expectation, and you can opt out at any time.

Stories from people like you

Hear from our public contributors who share their reflections on what they’ve learned and, enjoyed and gained from getting involved in healthcare improvement and innovation research.

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How to join

Fill in our online form with your details so we can tailor what we send you.

If you can’t see the sign-up form, click here to view it.

We’d love to hear from you. If you have any questions, please email ppi@thisinstitute.cam.ac.uk.