Join our focus groups and help shape a communications campaign for REC members

The Health Research Authority is looking for people aged 18-29 to join an exciting research project that will influence how we communicate with young people about joining a Research Ethics Committee.

What is a Research Ethics Committee (REC)?

RECs are made up of volunteers who review health and social care research applications, whilst protecting participants' interests.

Members don’t need experience in healthcare or research to apply, just a passion for making sure research is safe and fair. Learn more about joining a REC.

We are currently encouraging applications from people aged 18-29 to join Research Ethics Committees, as this age group is underrepresented in our membership.

We are also specifically looking for new members who have no professional healthcare experience or qualifications, or experience of managing or conducting health research. These members are classed as ‘lay’ members and bring a valuable perspective to discussions. For example, they may have lived, personal experience of a specific healthcare condition, or be interested or studying towards a career in the health or research field.

What do we need help with?

We need help from people aged 18-29 to design a communications campaign for prospective REC members in this age group. The aim is to help people understand what a REC does and how they can make a difference, to encourage them to join.

You should not have any professional healthcare experience or qualifications, so that you are giving the perspective of a ‘lay’ member.

What's involved?

You'll be asked to join 3 online sessions in February, March and April, which will be around 2 hours each.

Our first 2 sessions will take place from 5pm to 7pm on Thursday 19 February and Tuesday 24 March 2026. We will be able to discuss and confirm the date for the final session at the first session in February.

You will:

• learn how committees work and what members do
• share what would motivate you to get involved - from gaining experience for your CV to learning new skills
• help identify the best ways to reach people like you, for example through social media, webinars or other channels
• help us create recruitment materials like graphics, videos and social posts that you can add to your portfolio

Why take part?

As well as payment for your time, you will gain experience in user research and co-design for your CV.

You will also develop your communications skills whilst networking with professionals and help make a real difference to NHS and social care research communications, making sure it's designed for those it is targeting.

Will I receive payment for taking part?

Yes, in line with our payments policy, we can offer:

• £25 for any pre-reading and preparation you need to do in advance of the meeting.
• £50 for taking part in each 2 hour focus group

How will you decide who will be involved?

We will remove your name from your application and two members of HRA staff will consider your responses. We will shortlist people who have met the criteria to join the group. If we receive many applications that meets the criteria, we will select at random.