The need for better connections and communications between health and medical researchers and consumers has never been greater.

On April 4, 10.30 am – 4.00 pm at the University of Sydney (Sydney Knowledge Hub), ReConX – Building Researcher and Consumer Connections will bring together consumers who are interested in research with researchers who are seeking to better understand how to effectively engage consumers in their projects.

Hosted by Sydney Health Partners and the Sydney Knowledge Hub, and supported by Health Consumers NSW, ReConX will present examples of effective consumer/researcher partnerships and explore the factors that contribute to successful interactions.

A panel will discuss the things consumers and researchers require to work well in partnership. What do consumers think they need to be “research-ready”, and what do researchers think they need to be “consumer-ready”?

This event is for consumers and health and medical researchers looking to meaningfully engage in research projects. Learn how to make new connections, understand the characteristics of genuine partnership, and receive tips on managing expectations.

We have 30 spots for consumers and 30 spots for researchers and are likely to have some people on a waitlist. Please register your interest now, and we’ll come back to you to confirm your spot.

The workshop will conclude with a consultation session on the review of the National Statement on Consumer and Community Involvement in Health and Medical Research (from 3.00 – 4.00 pm). A second online consultation is being held on April 9 from 1.30 – 3.00 pm. Please confirm your interest in attending either of these important consultations when you register.

This is a free workshop, with complimentary lunch and refreshments included. Please note, we are unable to provide funding for consumers to attend.

Program:

10:30 - 10:40 am | Welcome by Associate Professor Angela Todd
10:40 - 11:00 am | Getting to Know Each Other, activity facilitated by Jane Cockburn
11:00 am - noon | ReConX in the Real World panel discussion with Professor Gopi Rangan, Vanessa Cullen, Dr Jillian Eyles and Thomas Buttel, facilitated by Jane Cockburn
Noon - 1:00 pm | Lunch
1:00 - 2:30 pm | Thinking Out Loud - Creating Consumer and Researcher Partnerships, world café facilitated by Carrie Hayter and Kathryn Leaney
2:30 - 2:50 pm | Afternoon tea
2:50 - 3:50 pm | Consultation on the National Consumer Involvement Statement facilitated by Associate Professor Angela Todd and Carrie Hayter
3:50 - 4:00 pm | Wrap-up and next steps by Associate Professor Angela Todd