This event aims to build an increased appreciation and understanding of how culture and religion shape perceptions of mental health and research – and how we can use these insights to improve inclusive research practice and engagement strategies.

Through a mix of talks, sharing and workshops, we’ll explore practical ways to enhance and shift our approach to engaging communities, discussing where research and PPIEP can be designed in synergy with faith concepts, making it more relatable and accessible.

You’ll leave with tangible approaches and ideas to embed into your work, strengthening both research quality and community partnerships.

This event has originated from the Oxford Health BRC Partners EDI Working Group and is co-hosted with our partners Sheffield Health Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, University of Sheffield, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, University of Birmingham and Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust Clinical Research Facility (CRF), and in collaboration with Birmingham BRC.

Register Here

What to Expect:

• Expert Talks & Presentations
  • Deep-End Research Alliance, University of Sheffield – Community Researcher Toolkit
  • Gulamabbas Lakha, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford
  • SACMHA Health & Social Care – community experiences of engaging in Mental Health and Research initiatives
• Workshops, including one facilitated by Youth Advisors from the Midlands Advisory Group (MAG) – Mental Health Mission Midlands Translational Centre
• Marketplace & Networking – Connect with other community organisations, as well as researchers and community engagement professionals nationally
• Reflection & Action – Consolidate insights and plan next steps for inclusive research practice.
• Fully catered lunch and refreshments throughout the day

Why Attend?

• Understand how cultural and religious factors influence mental health and research participation.
• Learn practical approaches to engage underrepresented communities in research.
• Build partnerships that strengthen inclusive and impactful research.

Who is it for?

Mental Health Researchers and professionals working in PPIE, research inclusion or community engagement would benefit most from this event. Priority booking is for staff from Oxford Health BRC and their Partner organisations, however it will be shared more widely if capacity allows.

Community and faith representatives have also been directly invited to share their invaluable insight. If you would like to attend on behalf of a community organisation or faith, we would be interested to hear from you!

Register Here

There are only a limited number of spaces available, we will confirm attendance by email.

If you have any questions about the event, please contact OH BRC EDI Project Manager, Lizzie Carline