Bristol’s Young People’s Advisory Group, also known as YPAG, is made up of young people in Bristol and the West interested in contributing to health and care research. It was founded as part of GenerationR and has been running since 2013. It is now run through the NIHR ARC South West.
Members aged between 10-25 meet with researchers to give their feedback on research focused on young people. They also get involved in research projects.
Our YPAG members are important because they offer their unique young person’s point of view. They are, after all, the experts on being a young person.
The diagram below explains how young people can contribute to every single stage of the research process. It was design by Bristol YPAG in conjunction with adult public contributor Louise Ting.
Click on the diagram below to see it in full:
Opportunities to get involved vary, including giving feedback on:
There are also opportunities to get involved in longer term research projects on a range of topics.
If you join Bristol YPAG, you’ll be helping make research better by sharing your unique experience and experience as a young person.
But there are lots of other benefits to getting involved in Bristol YPAG, including:
The group meets regularly, though you don’t have to attend all meetings. Meetings are usually held online via Zoom. Online sessions usually run between 5:30-6:30pm on weekday evenings.
Occasional meetings are also held in person. This is usually during the holidays or on Saturdays.
“Being part of YPAG has made me feel heard and valued. It gives me the chance to join meaningful and important discussions, share my feedback on new research, and express my own ideas. The organisers are so kind and supportive, always making everyone feel comfortable and encouraged to speak up. After being part of this group for many years I feel proud knowing that my voice can contribute to something that helps improve people’s health and lives” – Ayaan, 15
“I’ve been in a YPAG member for 8 years and I’ve learnt a lot by getting involved in a huge range of projects. The best thing about YPAG is seeing the advice you give being put into action and knowing that you’ve made a difference” – Alice, 18
“YPAG gave me the opportunities that have catalysed my career in health research. Not only did it widen my knowledge but taught me how to communicate in a multi-professional environment. I have made friends, connections and memories with YPAG that will stay with me throughout my career” – Ellen, 22
“Being part of Bristol YPAG has given me the opportunity to have my voice heard and contribute to research that can make a real difference for young people. I’ve enjoyed working with researches, sharing my views, and knowing that my input helps improve future healthcare and research” – Joe, 15
“Wow, really interesting comments and some things I would never have thought of. We had a bit of a giggle at some things but this all seems very useful. Let’s hope they allow some changes!”
“The young people were great, and very engaging – many thanks”
“We were listening [to the YPAG] intently and taking their comments really seriously – and finding them incredibly helpful”
“I can honestly say that this is some of the best feedback I have ever received … I have really enjoyed both of the sessions I have done with the YPAG, they are an amazing bunch of people and very enthusiastic”
Bristol YPAG is facilitated by NIHR ARC South West’s PPIE Officer Lucy Condon.
If you are interested in becoming a Bristol YPAG member or are a researcher wanting to involve the group in your work please do get in touch via the email below.
Email: ypag-admin@bristol.ac.uk
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