Connecting through conversation: Birmingham BRC joins Muslim radio station to discuss public participation in health research

On 2 February 2025, the NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) team, represented by Freen Mehdi (Research Inclusion Manager), Laura Chapman (Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement Manager), and Dr Joseph Lanario (researcher from our Patient-reported Outcomes theme) joined Unity FM, the UK’s largest Muslim community radio station, for a live discussion on public participation in health research.

The conversation focused on the importance of inclusive engagement and the need to ensure that health research reflects the diversity of the communities it serves. Unity FM’s platform provided an opportunity to reach audiences who are often underserved or underrepresented in research, and to explore how trust, relevance, and accessibility can be strengthened through dialogue.

Freen Mehdi commented:

“Opportunities like this allow us to engage directly with communities who may not see themselves reflected in research. We want to build trust with communities that are often underserved in health research.”

Dr Joseph Lanario added:

“Speaking on Unity FM helped us connect with people in a way that feels personal and meaningful. These conversations are essential if we want research to be inclusive, impactful, and shaped by the communities it aims to benefit.”

Listen to the full programme

The NIHR Birmingham BRC continues to work with local partners and community organisations to expand participation and ensure that research is informed by a broad range of lived experiences.
Explore what else we’re doing to improve research inclusion.