We recently travelled to Manchester for the annual Community Research Network Away Days - a gathering hosted by The Young Foundation in collaboration with UK Research and Innovation. Bringing together the nine networks from across the UK, the event offered space to reflect, connect, and collectively reimagine a deceptively simple concept: what is research for, and who is it really serving. Shifting the centre of gravity It’s easy to underestimate how unusual this is. Research

Leaving the Isles of Scilly to head for Sheffield meant the usual small expedition – plane, trains, and that feeling of crossing from one world to another. CiviCon 25 , held on the 14 th and 15 th of October 2025, asked how universities and communities can work together, and more challengingly, how they can let communities lead. I was there as a panellist on the UKRI and The Young Foundation’s Community Research Networks session on the first day, and stayed for both days o

Community-led research is not just a concept but a movement to change our approach to research

We're excited to announce a PhD opportunity to work alongside us at the CRN and evaluate the community-led approach to research

The Isles of Scilly is a lively community brimming with potential for collaboration between the educators and local organisations. A...

The Isles of Scilly have always thrived on community spirit, resilience, and innovation. From local businesses adapting to island life,...