This project builds on the ongoing development of P&C research within public sector organisations, universities, and community groups in Tower Hamlets (see Appendix 1 for examples). Prior to the pandemic, Tower Hamlets Council piloted the Community Insights Programme (CIP) (22), which included a network and repository for community insights. The programme created a centralised space to find information about research projects and opportunities. Progress on the repository has been limited due to user interface challenges, insufficient funding, and the diversity of forms that community insights data comes in. The CIP was suspended in 2019. Tower Hamlets Council’s Poverty Review (23) also collaborated closely with P&C researchers from a community organisation to conduct co-produced research. Additionally, three local universities have undertaken training and research activities related to P&C research, while several community organisations have conducted P&C research projects at the local, regional, and national levels (see examples 25 and 26). Despite these activities, there appears to be no comprehensive understanding of P&C research in Tower Hamlets.
In the UK and beyond, efforts are made to support P&C research and co-production at local, regional, and national levels. The Greater London Authority (GLA), for example, has been working to integrate community insights into policymaking, aiming to move beyond traditional text and data formats. The GLA is currently developing a peer research toolkit and plans to launch a community insights hub, along with a guidance for policymakers, later this year. Several P&C research and 11 co-production networks exist, such as the London Peer Research Network led by Partnership for Young London, the Peer Research Network at the Young Foundation, and the Co-production Collective at the University College London. They are often hosted by organisations that encourage networking, information sharing, and offer training and events while also serving as P&C research providers. Internationally, organisations have been established to support P&C research. In Canada, for instance, Community Based Research Canada (CBRCanada) was founded as a non-profit organisation comprising over 60 universities, colleges, community organisations, and other institutions advancing a community-based research approach. While individuals can join, the number of P&C researchers involved is unclear. CBRCanada offers a repository of resources, research projects, and publications on community and peer research, as well as a directory of involved organisations. It operates on membership fees, and is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of researchers and non-profit leaders from across Canada. A Secretariat oversees day-to-day operations.