Publication of the Cheshire and Merseyside REN Impact Report
VSNW is delighted to announce the publication of the Cheshire and Merseyside Research Engagement Network (REN) Impact Report. This report reflects eight months of collaborative work (August 2023 – March 2024), with contributions from stakeholders across the region. The effort was supported by Warren Escadale, CEO of VSNW, and Francesca McIntosh, VCFSE Research Coordinator at VSNW.
The REN programme, funded by NHS England, aims to enhance equity, diversity, and inclusion in health and care research by fostering collaboration between researchers, health and care providers, and voluntary, community, faith, and social enterprise (VCFSE) organisations.
You can download the full report here.
Key Achievements
The report highlights:
Community Research Champions: A network of trained champions who facilitate inclusive research in underserved communities.
Engagement and Partnerships: Collaboration with over 124 organisations, including community groups, health and care providers, and local authorities.
Capacity-Building Resources: Tools such as the "Access to Research" infographic, which details the research infrastructure for VCFSE organisations, and the “Get to Know the Sector” video, explaining the structure of the VCFSE sector for researchers.
Training and Outreach: Initiatives that strengthen research capacity and promote inclusive practices.
Reflections and Future Directions
This foundational work has demonstrated the value of embedding VCFSE organisations in health and care research, increasing representation and collaboration. Looking to the future, VSNW is excited to be preparing for the launch of the BRIDGE Research Network (Bridging Research Initiatives for Diverse Grassroots Engagement). Set to pilot in February 2025, the portal aims to expand research diversity, build sustainable partnerships, and further address barriers to participation.
In his foreword to the report, Warren Escadale, CEO of VSNW, reflects:
“Amidst all this, if there is one big takeaway for me, it has been the development of the Cheshire and Merseyside Phoenix Way Network that includes a growing network of local organisations championing race equality in their communities. This network has been built; now we need to get the academics to it.”
Acknowledgements
The REN Impact Report is a testament to the dedication of many organisations and individuals, including Mary Seacole House, the Phoenix Way Network, and the Chinese Wellbeing Society. Their approaches have amplified community voices in health and care research, fostering inclusivity and equity.
For more information about the REN programme or to explore future collaboration opportunities, contact Francesca McIntosh at francesca.mcintosh@vsnw.org.uk.