Developing community connections in Thurrock. Conversations with local community, stakeholder, health and social care services.
Background
As part of the short term IIRP objectives, researchers wanted to spend time talking and listening to those living and working in the local areas of Thurrock to understand local issues and particular health and social care priorities. University of Essex colleagues started with informal conversations and worked on establishing relationships in the area. Researchers attended local meetings and visited groups already happening. The IIRP researchers shared their connections across the ARC East of England themes who have subsequently developed connections and invited members from Thurrock to theme meetings (for example AMM and PEDHSC).
Project aims
The project aimed at establishing community connections in Thurrock (the Population in Focus) in order to develop research priorities and develop co-developed research ideas.
Project activity
Connections made with a number of groups to discuss local issues, health and care research priorities; for example Thurrock Community Voluntary Services (CVS), Thurrock Healthwatch, Thurrock Borough Council, Thurrock Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG)). Also, links made with Thurrock Public Health team and Public Health Director at Thurrock Borough Council. Connections made with Lifestyle Solutions (a local domiciliary social care provider) and Thurrock Foodbank, as well as GP practices in Thurrock.
Outputs
Established a number of research priority areas which have led to further work, developed funding bids and attracted small grants to continue work with Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities (IIRP05) and Community connections (IIRP06).
Who was involved?
Principal Investigator
Professor Gill Green, University of Essex
Researchers and institutions
- Professor Ewen Speed, University of Essex
- Sally Burrows, University of Essex
Contact us
Professor Gill Green
