Working with community organisations, charities, local authorities and research organisations, the Community Research Network programme supports neighbourhood-level engagement with research, while also building on both UK Research and Innovation(UKRI)’s strategic objective to build collaborative and diverse knowledge, and The Young Foundation’s mission for every UK citizen to experience the power of participation, shaping positive change.
An initial phase of the Community Research Network programme previously helped 25 local networks as they built relationships and established research priorities and plans. Launching today, the second phase will fund up to 10 networks over five years, with grants of up to £1m each.
Through to 2029, The Young Foundation will deliver a structured learning programme and support, with a regular rhythm of engagement supporting the funded networks. This will include whole-cohort away days, thematic learning experiences, dedicated mentoring and coaching, and an online hub for consolidating evidence, stories and impact.
Evidence of societal impact
In the research and innovation (R&I) sector, community research is less developed, less understood and (often) less valued than other areas and approaches. Working in partnership with UKRI through this programme, The Young Foundation will help grow the capacity and impact of networks that are already motivated to work in this way, while also building opportunities for others to engage with, and explore the potential of, community research and practice. A key aim of this work is to connect community research networks and their practice to the wider R&I ecosystem through events and storytelling, and by sharing evidence of societal impact.
Tom Saunders, Head of Public Engagement at UKRI, says:
“I’m thrilled that UKRI are working with The Young Foundation to launch the second phase of our Community Research Networks programme, and excited to see how the networks evolve over the next five years. This is a major investment for UKRI, which will push the boundaries of community-engaged research and innovation, tackling local and national challenges, and paving the way for a more equitable, inclusive and open R&I system.”
Helen Goulden OBE, Chief Executive of The Young Foundation, says:
“Interest in involving communities in research and innovation has been growing for some time, with increased recognition of the power of, and potential in, expanding the infrastructure to support community research as a sustained part of our national R&I ecosystem. The opportunity, presented through the UKRI support, is significant, and The Young Foundation’s commitment to this work is in its bones. We are incredibly excited and motivated to maximise the opportunity.”
For more information on the Community Research Network outputs and activities, visit our hub.
Community Innovation and Investment Places Social innovation Posted on: 31 July 2024