Research Skills Training Programme: Work in Progress

Abstract

Background

This abstract describes the Tower Hamlets HDRC's development and delivery plan for our Research Skills Training Programme. This programme was designed by the L&D workstream, as a mix of council, university and VCS partners, to meet the training needs identified in the scoping phase of the project. The cohort is 15 council officers accompanied by 2 VCS professionals, who are recipients of a bursary scheme created to support this programme.

Objectives

The programme has been designed to give the cohort the opportunity to learn how to apply evidence-based decision-making principles and practice core research skills.

By the end of the programme, participants will have the skills to:

(1) find, appraise, synthesise and apply different forms of existing evidence,

(2) generate robust new evidence,

(3) support a culture of ethical collaboration with residents and the voluntary sector.

Stage At Submission

The programme has been designed, the materials to be delivered by universities are currently being co-produced with the council, and delivery is set to begin in May 2026. The programme is a year long and we are currently seeking accreditation from the CPD Certification Service.

Methods

This research skills training programme includes:

Stage One - Using Evidence: focuses on finding and evaluating sources, critical appraisal, literature reviewing, and presenting available evidence on a given topic in a comprehensive and accessible way.

Stage Two - Doing Research: covers essential research methods, developing evaluation skills, practising data visualisation, and presenting key findings through report writing.

Stage Three - Building a Research Culture: focuses on research ethics, public involvement, and research community.

The programme provides participants with one day per month worth of training, split over 4 components: 2-3 hours of in-person training, 2 hours reading and additional resources, 1 hour online peer discussion, and 1 hour of facilitated reflective practice.

Learning so far

Design process – how to select relevant frameworks

Timelines – co-production with the universities has been a challenge due to sector strain; prolonged conversation about tailoring content to fit council context

Capacity – questions of how to ensure availability of appropriate cohort

Bursary scheme – how to make the programme accessible and relevant to VCS colleagues