Last year we published our Research Inclusion strategy. This sets out how we will ensure that equity, diversity and inclusion are embedded throughout our research, culture and systems. While developing the strategy, we shared a survey so we could better understand our community and capture priorities in this area. Part of our strategy is to monitor our progress and priorities each year through repeating the survey. In this feature we share some insights from our 2026 survey.

Overview and demographics

Our latest survey was open for four weeks between 5 January and 2 February 2026. We saw around a 14% rise in survey responses. This included an increase in representation from HRC staff and students, public members and community organisations.

The survey captured demographic data across the nine characteristics protected from discrimination by the Equality Act 2010. Findings included:

• A slight reduction in age sharing but an increase in older respondents and those who declared a disability.
• Similar representation of ethnicity and religion to the last survey, with a slight increase in those sharing a specific religion or belief.

Training and resource needs

We included further questions to capture confidence levels of our community in embodying the principles of Research Inclusion in their activities with us. The survey also collected training needs in this area. Respondents felt assured about the concepts. However, they expressed a need for more training and guidance in putting Research Inclusion principles into practice. Specific areas mentioned included:

• Tips for embedding Research Inclusion into grant applications and ensuring it is adequately resourced.
• Skills for public outreach and community involvement such as health inequality, cultural competency, and disability awareness training.
• Clear definitions for some of the terminology in this area.

Respondents suggested training sessions and regular updates as preferred ways to receive resources.

Awareness days and public engagement

Recently we have enjoyed being part of different community events held in honour of national awareness days and months. Through the survey, we discovered what other awareness days and months our community would like us to commemorate. Responses included campaigns for specific health conditions and broader initiatives like Race Equality Week and International Women’s Day.

Next steps

We now plan to draft an action plan for the next few months based on the survey findings. In the meantime, below are some hyperlinks which you may find useful.

Public partnership and research inclusion training in North East and North Cumbria

HRC network involvement and inclusion resources

Link to our jargon buster

Find out more about our approach to research inclusion