A Ripple of Ren …

SP’s story of how the REN ‘I am more than way…’ unlocked the door to research involvement!

What is a ‘Ripple of REN’?

A ‘Ripple of REN’ refers to an activity that occurs as an indirect result of our REN work. Recognising the value of these ripples helps to demonstrate the wider reach and lasting influence of the project beyond its original aims. We are pleased to share this positive example that SP has shared, along with some context about how it developed and came about.

My experience so far

I have been a client of The Lantern for a few years. They are very good and I particularly enjoy attending the groups run at Hope House, which is where the opportunity to become involved in a PIER project arose.

As someone who loves learning, I am always happy to help with any research or opinions I can give, and each opportunity is always very well explained, with options to stop at any time if it is ever too much.

Most meetings can take place online at home, which makes it a lot easier for me to participate, and I am always made to feel welcome.

What this meant for me

I have particularly enjoyed being involved in the latest project, which I was asked to do because of my experience of paramedic and hospital treatment for physical and mental health issues, and there are major differences in how you are treated.

Helping to pick suitable vignettes for interviewing paramedics and going over transcripts of the interviews was very interesting.

I always feel welcome. I am given space to talk, share my opinions and I feel valued. The fact this is finally being recognised as an issue by those with power to make change is reward in itself!

Seeing how different people behave in the same scenarios highlighted areas in training and practice which need improvement and being even a small part of bringing change like this is an amazing feeling!

I am happy to volunteer for more research projects, as it takes very little time overall and can really help. My questions are answered in a kind, friendly way and the support and encouragement makes joining further projects easy and rewarding.

There’s many different optional projects and ways to help… you can find one for you!

Kate’s thoughts:

“This opportunity for people and communities to be involved in a project developing training for paramedics to improve their care of patients presenting with mental health needs came through an academic colleague at BU with whom PIER has previously collaborated.

I shared this opportunity across the PIER network including with The Lantern Trust. I reached out to Tanya to ask if she knew anyone who might be suitable to share the opportunity with.

These pre-established, trusting connections, and having Tanya as a point of contact for support enabled SP to quickly and confidently join this research project.

A previous positive experience of being involved in a research workshop with PIER and Lantern was essential.

SP’s involvement increased the diversity of perspectives involved in shaping this project and crucially, supported involvement of the people most affected by the research, yet traditionally least likely to have a voice across multiple stages of the research process.”

Tanya’s thoughts:

“I’m always filled with joy when I can offer opportunities to the Lantern clients I work with and support, particularly when it feels like a harmonious fit and I’m confident the person will enjoy and benefit from participating.

What enables me to be mindful of a good ‘match’ is the connection I have the honour of developing with Lantern clients through the group work and activities SP shares through their experience.

The more I learn about the people and their circumstances and strengths, the more (in my opinion) I can offer relevant and meaningful opportunities and to consistently keep people in mind.”

Our key ingredients

• Established relationships
• Point of contact
• Trust
• Flexibility
• Choice
• Availability of support