Fusion21 Foundation helps kickstart community research programme in Birmingham

Fusion21 Foundation provided £39,295 to Birmingham Voluntary Service Council (BVSC) to match fund support from Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (BCHC), enabling them to co-create a comprehensive Community Researcher training programme.

BVSC piloted training modules with individuals from the community to equip them with the tools to conduct research rooted in their lived experiences and local knowledge. The programme has since been given a Quality Mark by accreditation centre AIM.

Real-world application has been key to demonstrating the value of community research. For example, the community researchers have gathered data for BCHC, producing reports that directly informed healthcare services. Similarly, they have been commissioned by Birmingham City Council’s Public Health to deliver a range of community research projects concerned with local public health.

Fusion21 Foundation’s funding supported BSVC to lay the building blocks for their long-term vision: the Community Hub for Engagement in Research Practice (CHERP). CHERP aims to create a thriving ecosystem where research is driven by communities, for communities - enabling citizens to actively participate in shaping research agendas, designing projects, and influencing policy decisions.

Under the CHERP, community researchers are fairly compensated for their time (following guidelines from the National Institute for Health & Social Care Research), and the hub will support their continued development through a dedicated website, networking events, further training, and project opportunities.

Jo Hannan, Head of Fusion21 Foundation:

‘We’re delighted to have been able to support BVSC in their work to ensure that research not only represents Birmingham’s communities but also drives meaningful change for everyone. It’s great to see the impact our initial investment has made, and to see how that has helped BVSC to build momentum and support for their longer-term vision.’

Sophie Wilson, Director of BVSC Research:

‘At BVSC Research, we are proud of our journey to establish, develop, and grow a vibrant community research activity hub. Funding from Fusion21 Foundation was crucial to help us to start the work in this area which empowered residents across Birmingham to take an active role in research that affects their lives and communities. Through collaboration, co-creation, and a commitment to inclusivity, we’ve built a model that is as much about listening and learning as it is about action and impact.’