Collaborating to empower patient groups

A workshop to develop a new collaboration between patient groups at Barts Cancer Institute and the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Centre took place this week.

The first CamBarts Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) Collaboration Workshop marks a milestone in healthcare research.

The central themes for the day were facilitating collaboration, empowering participants, and sharing best practices.

Attendees, including Barts ECMC and Cambridge ECMC PPI representatives, engaged in networking sessions and interactive discussions, laying the groundwork for future partnerships.

The group also enjoyed some hands-on science activities, including extracting DNA from strawberries.

“I think it was an excellent day. Everyone was so welcoming, and the day was well planned.” Tricia, Barts PPI member commented.
Andrew, Barts PPI member added, “I was pleasantly surprised by the number of participants and the wide-ranging experience that the Cambridge PPI group had – especially on the funding of research projects."

Maria Lapuente and Cherry May Sanchez, CRUK Senior Research Nurses from Barts Cancer Institute and CRUK Cambridge Centre respectively, emphasised the enriching experience for both PPI groups, expressing gratitude to members for their steadfast engagement.

The workshop underscores the transformative impact of collaboration in healthcare research, setting a precedent for future endeavours.

7 Feb 2024