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Here are @DrVJMcGowan TOP TIPS for ensuring #diversity in #research in a handy thread. Read Vicki's #fuseblog for more on public #involvement and #engagement in research 
https://fuseopenscienceblog.blogspot.com/2021/04/how-do-we-improve-diversity-in-research.html
https://fuseopenscienceblog.blogspot.com/2021/04/how-do-we-improve-diversity-in-research.html
1. Identify trusted partners.
Engage with your existing networks but identify people who are already trusted in their community. These people are most important, whether we’re in a #COVID19 or the non-Covid world. Find them and work with them. Approach grassroots organisations.
Engage with your existing networks but identify people who are already trusted in their community. These people are most important, whether we’re in a #COVID19 or the non-Covid world. Find them and work with them. Approach grassroots organisations.
2. Actively seek out diverse groups.
Don’t assume members of diverse groups will respond to your advert on Twitter, you must actively engage with those that represent marginalised communities. Use tools like PROGRESS+ & HIAT as a guide to check you’re providing equity of access.
Don’t assume members of diverse groups will respond to your advert on Twitter, you must actively engage with those that represent marginalised communities. Use tools like PROGRESS+ & HIAT as a guide to check you’re providing equity of access.
3. Boots on the ground.
Leave the comfort of your (home) office! Opportunity does not knock at your door, you need to go out and seek it. Pre-Covid this means being present in community spaces. During #COVID19 this means using existing networks, online sessions & WhatsApp groups.
Leave the comfort of your (home) office! Opportunity does not knock at your door, you need to go out and seek it. Pre-Covid this means being present in community spaces. During #COVID19 this means using existing networks, online sessions & WhatsApp groups.
4. Give something back.
That may be reimbursing people for their time or providing opportunities for training & skills sharing - perhaps members of the community want to share their skills. Develop reciprocal relationships, don’t just take from communities to boost your career!
That may be reimbursing people for their time or providing opportunities for training & skills sharing - perhaps members of the community want to share their skills. Develop reciprocal relationships, don’t just take from communities to boost your career!
5. Be patient.
Developing trusted, meaningful, and reciprocal relationships takes time. Be patient. Do not underestimate how long it can take - I’ve been working with some groups for 6 years!
Developing trusted, meaningful, and reciprocal relationships takes time. Be patient. Do not underestimate how long it can take - I’ve been working with some groups for 6 years!
6. Manage expectations.
But if you don’t have 6 years, be honest with people that your work is time sensitive and clearly articulate what you need and how people will be reimbursed if they’re able to help you. Don’t promise the moon on a stick if you can’t deliver!
But if you don’t have 6 years, be honest with people that your work is time sensitive and clearly articulate what you need and how people will be reimbursed if they’re able to help you. Don’t promise the moon on a stick if you can’t deliver!
