Our Research Priorities
As a research academy , we aim to deliver research excellence and outcomes that improve the lives of people living with disability. We decide on what areas to focus our inquiry by collaborating with and listening to the real life experiences of PLEx
BAIl’s research priorities are set by people with the lived experience (PLEx). The lived experience includes the lived experience of whanau and support workers of those who are affected by disability, as well as the individuals themselves.
In 2018 members of the Burwood Academy Consumer (BAC) Network were invited to a consumer forum to update our research priorities. The forum was recorded and transcribed. We analysed the data using thematic analysis to identify the important research themes. To make sure these research themes were representative of the wider community, we sent a survey to disability organisations to circulate to their members. Fifty-six people participated in a survey to rank the priority level of these areas. Results were collated and reviewed by the BAC Network.
The final result was four main research priorities with sub themes as research imperatives.
Living Well after Serious Injury and Remaining Healthy
- Preventing and managing secondary complications
- Aging
- Medications and alternatives
- Education and refresher courses
Engaging Rehabilitation
Placing ownership of rehabilitation in the hands of the person and their family
- Relationships (between consumers and health professionals)
- Rehabilitation Journey
- Peer support
- Hope
Maximising Participation
- Equipment
- Employment
- Travel (ease of access to air travel)
- Activities and skills (managing in the outdoors)
Creating an Enabling Society
- Support workers – skill, consistency and reliability
- Community Access
- Social Isolation
- Government legislation – having a voice and informing decisions
- Advocacy based on evidence and influence on societal attitude
Our role is to weave together research plans, validating and translating these research priorities into actionable programmes and policies.