Taking part in health or care research offers many benefits, both for individuals and the wider community. Participants may gain early access to new treatments or technologies, which can lead to better health outcomes. Many people also find that being involved in research helps them better understand their own health or condition.

That’s why we’re working with NHS Somerset to understand how local people feel about being involved in research through primary care settings.

We’re asking 13 community members/leaders to host a conversation with people in their communities about their thoughts, ideas and experiences relating to health research.

Through these conversations, we aim to:

• Understand what people know (or don’t know) about health research
• Explore how people feel about being invited to take part – especially in local settings
• Build trust and confidence in how research is explained and shared
• Find better ways to talk about research so more people can get involved

Groups will receive £350 as a thank you for taking part, once they’ve shared what they’ve learnt with us.

The deadline for applications is Monday 8 December, with awards announced by Wednesday 24 December. Conversations should take place in January and early February 2026, with summaries and learnings shared with us by Friday 20 February 2026.

For more information about this opportunity, or to express your interest, please contact olly.clabburn@sparksomerset.org.uk or joanna.bogunska@sparksomerset.org.uk.

Funding is also available to Somerset-based voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise (VCFSE) groups working on community-led projects relating to the building blocks of health, thanks to the Somerset Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC).

Groups can apply for up to £2,500, which can also be used for initiatives that support and strengthen financial stability and employment in the county, including:

• Reaching people who aren’t working or using support services
• Training for employers supporting staff with long-term health conditions or disabilities
• Transport solutions for people with long-term health conditions
• Employment support for carers
• CV writing and job application support

Applications for this first round of funding close on Friday 16 January 2026.

To find out more about this fund, please visit the HDRC website.