Impact through Engagement

Abstract

BackgroundThe Administrative Data Research Centre Northern Ireland (ADRC NI) is a research partnership between Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University to facilitate access to linked administrative data for research purposes for public benefit and for evidence-based policy development. This requires a social licence extended by publics which is maintained by a robust approach to engagement and involvement. ApproachPublic engagement is central to the ADRC NI’s approach to research. Research impact is pursued and secured through robust engagement and co-production of research with publics and key stakeholders. This is done by focusing on data subjects (the cohort of people whose lives make up the datasets, placing value on experts by experience outside of academic knowledge, and working with public(s) as key data advocates, through project steering committees and targeted events with stakeholders. The work is led by a dedicated Public Engagement, Communications and Impact Manager. DiscussionWhile there are strengths and weaknesses to the ADRC NI approach, examples of successful partnerships and clear pathways to impact demonstrate its utility and ability to amplify the positive impact of administrative data research. Working with publics as data use becomes more ubiquitous in a post-COVID-19 world will become more critical. ADRC NI’s model is a potential way forward.

‘To me, it's ones and zeros, but in reality that one is death’: A qualitative study exploring researchers' experience of involving and engaging seldom‐heard communities in big data research

“…Our findings have shown the importance of building and maintaining relationships with organizations, especially charities. This confirms previous research that shows that links to the third sector are crucial in building trust 53–55 . They often act as gatekeepers but also have the potential to act as a partner.…”

“…This confirms previous research that shows that links to the third sector are crucial in building trust. [53][54][55] They often act as gatekeepers but also have the potential to act as a partner. There is, however, a risk that researchers would not reach many communities as they might be limited to the partner organization's level of diversity.…”

Exploring how to improve the involvement of Polish and South Asian communities around big data research. A qualitative study using COM-B model

“…Seldom-heard communities are a broad definition, so we decided to focus on migrants and ethnic minorities as these are recognised as under-represented communities (e.g. NIHR [ 21 ]) Public involvement can help in formulating initiatives to reach seldom-heard communities [ 22 ].…”