A new national initiative led by The University of Manchester offers an exciting opportunity to enhance patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) for both researchers and public contributors. 

VoiceIn is a new digital platform that simplifies public engagement in health research. Through the free app, members of the public can discover studies that match their personal interests and contribute to research ideas quickly and easily. 

The platform has been co-designed with and by young people and health researchers to complement traditional PPIE methods by making health research more accessible. Researchers upload information about their projects and upcoming involvement opportunities to the VoiceIn platform, where public contributors can respond to tailored questions, provide feedback, and stay informed about the latest research developments directly from their mobile phone. 

Funded by the UKRI Medical Research Council and NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Greater Manchester, The University of Manchester has spearheaded the development of VoiceIn to enhance PPIE in health research. 

For researchers, the app offers a straightforward platform to reach a more diverse audience, with real-time engagement available to help plan and deliver your project. Questions can be tailored to your target audience, and you can view detailed anonymous demographic information to ensure that your research is inclusive. 

VoiceIn also makes it easier for public contributors to shape the future of health research. You can discover studies that align with your interests and lived experience, provide feedback on research ideas, and stay updated on ongoing projects. 

While the project has its foundations in the University’s Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, the team aims to empower VoiceIn as a platform for PPIE in health research at a national scale. The platform functions as a practical tool for enhancing inclusivity and accessibility, helping to bridge the gap between researchers and the wider public. 

To find out more about how to get involved with the project as a researcher or public contributor, visit the VoiceIn website or contact the team at voicein@manchester.ac.uk. 

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