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Research inclusion

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People involved

Freen Mehdi

Research Inclusion Manager

Dr Ameeta Retzer

Research Inclusion Lead

Here at the BRC: Birmingham, we are committed to advocating the cause of research inclusion. We aim to cultivate an environment that encourages equity and respect in every aspect of our research programme. This includes everything from workforce recruitment and development to collaborating with diverse stakeholders.

Creating an equal, diverse and inclusive environment is pivotal to good science. The benefits of research inclusion extend far beyond scientific achievement. It is a powerful force for social change, reducing health inequalities and ensuring that our research results reflect the broader population.

Our vision

We want to demonstrate diversity, inclusion and fairness in all our research efforts. Our aim is to prioritise patient and public outcomes by upholding impartiality, taking action and building cultural understanding. We strive to cultivate an inclusive, diverse culture that amplifies all voices and fosters cooperation and partnership.

Our culture

Our culture statement, developed collaboratively with contributors from across the BRC and partner organisations, reinforces our commitment to supporting an inclusive research community, grounded in collaboration, care, communication and creativity.

Read our culture statement

Our strategic aims

We have developed a strategy to ensure we deliver on our commitment to research inclusion. Our strategy centres around 4 strategic aims:

Staff culture

Develop an inclusive culture and behaviour to sustain a diverse workforce that reflects the rich diversity of our community

Workforce training

Equip our workforce to competently implement research inclusion principles in research

Engagement

Create an inclusive environment for Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement, where our work can be shaped by the diverse communities we serve

Continuous improvement

Continuously monitor our research inclusion initiatives, analysing data to enhance and refine our approach

Read the full strategy

Our progress towards research inclusion

Hands of people of different ages, genders and ethnicities on a table

Co-developing resources to make research more inclusive and representative

We developed the REP-EQUITY toolkit to guide representative and equitable inclusion in clinical research. 

Four women sitting at a table covered by an NIHR branded tablecloth

Strengthening ties with underserved communities

Our teams regularly engage with one of the UK’s largest mosques, promoting awareness and trust in research among the Muslim community.

Live illustration from the event, with speakers and key points represented in doodle style

Fostering race inclusivity among research staff

Our research explored the challenges faced by racially minoritised staff to progress in their career.

Explore our inclusion work