We want our research to be developed with the people it aims to help, especially young people with lived experience. Research hasn’t always worked this way, with decisions often made about people rather than with them. Young people will help set our research priorities and guide us throughout each project. Their involvement also benefits them directly, by building confidence, developing skills, and giving them the chance to improve services in the region. 

To support this, we have created a Youth Advisory Group made up of 16–25-year-olds from across the region. The group meets monthly and helps guide the overall direction our research. They provide advice across all workstreams and ensure that young people’s views stay at the heart of our decision making.  

Examples of their contributions to the project include: 

• Helping design and improve the website layout and content 
• Suggesting clearer language to make research materials easier to understand 
• Reviewing early findings and giving feedback on what feels most relevant to young people 
• Young people plan to take part in trips to the university of Bath campus and to develop presentation and research skills.  

Hear what one of our youth advisors, Nathan, has to say: