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The University of Southampton
Primary Care Research Centre

Patient & Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE)

What is PPIE?

PPIE is research that is done ‘with’ or ‘by’ the public (including patients) and not simply ‘to’, ‘about’ or ‘for’ them.

Why is PPIE in research important?

Involving the public ensures that researchers are putting public need and opinion at the centre of their research.

“Recruitment and retention of participants in studies is often a challenge. PPIE input can enhance any literature by ensuring the information isn't bewildering.” (Jill, Public Contributor).

Given the value of PPIE in research, it is not surprising that most funders now require all researchers to include a PPIE plan in their research funding applications.

What are the benefits of getting involved?

Within the Primary Care Research Centre there are many different opportunities for Public Contributors to get involved in research

We also have a programme of community outreach, led by the Finding Out Together Team, to involve and engage the public with research.

People join research for various reasons. Some are interested in specific illnesses, wanting to learn and influence patient choices and treatments.

Public and Patient Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) offers a chance to meet new people, acquire skills, and understand NHS research better.

“I am not an academic but an elderly ordinary member of the public. I find the research work fascinating and appreciate the knowledge I gain from working with eminent Professors and Doctors” (Margaret, Public Contributor).

It's open to everyone, regardless of qualifications, and many find it a rewarding and positive experience.

“As a PPIE participant I have found it rewarding to see my views both listened to and acted upon particularly in respect of a questionnaire for parents involved in the research project” (Kirsty, Public Contributor).

Meet our PPIE Team and find out about how you can get involved

We are a very friendly team led by Sonia Newman and Kate Henaghan-Sykes (PPIE Officers) and supported by Dr Miriam Santer (Professor in Primary Care Research).

Our Primary Care lead Public Contributors are: Tressa Davey, Abidwali Elmi, Jean Hughes and John McGavin.

Find out more about how we're improving public involvement at the Primary Care Research Centre by reading our PPIE Strategy.

If you are interested in getting involved in our research or if you would like to become a Public Contributor you can register your interest by completing our Patient & Public Involvement and Engagement Registration Form.

Please also see our Welcome pack for patient & public involvement and engagement with the Primary Care Research Centre or you can contact the PPIE Officers at primarycareppie@soton.ac.uk.

Information for Researchers

For early support with your grant application including help to plan your PPIE strategy, please contact the Research Support Service Southampton Hub, at nihr-rss@soton.ac.uk. The Primary Care Research Centre PPIE Officers, PrimaryCarePPIE@soton.ac.uk can provide general guidance on best practice, resources and information and discuss possible approaches to engaging with and involving underserved communities, for example, disadvantaged families and ethnic minority groups.

The Wessex Public Involvement Network
The Wessex Public Involvement Network

PPIE SharePoint link

Patient & Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) SharePoint site - Internal users only.

If you are a member of the Primary Care Research Centre and cannot access this link please request access and email Jane Cousins at J.Cousins@soton.ac.uk

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