This webpage has been co-created by us, the peer researchers involved in the project, reflecting our insights and experiences.
Peer research is a collaborative method where the researchers have lived experience of the subject they are studying. This approach ensures that research is informed by those directly affected, promotes inclusivity, empowers marginalised voices, and uncovers data that might not be accessible through traditional methods.
Our commitment to co-production ensures that the research process is ethical and accessible, grounded in real-world insights. Additionally, adopting a trauma-informed approach is crucial to creating a supportive environment and protecting participants' well-being.
Having the opportunity to learn new skills in a group and working with other people has been fun so far. I like that we're all learning together, and we all have different strengths, learning from each other.
Peer researcher
Funded by The Young Foundation, our project tests the feasibility of peer research in the housing sector. Our goals are:
We have two research groups, each testing the viability of the peer research method by focusing on a specific question related to temporary accommodation in Brighton.
Group 1: "How do we prevent people of different intersectionalities from ending up in temporary accommodation?"
Group 2: Developing our research question and methodology using the peer research manual as a guide.
Brighton & Hove face significant challenges with homelessness, with Shelter figures indicating that 1 in 88 people in the area are homeless, and approximately 3,063 individuals are living in temporary accommodation.
As residents of Brighton & Hove, we are uniquely positioned to provide valuable local insights and perspectives, ensuring that our findings are both relevant and impactful.
Knowledge Exchange Event: We will organise a knowledge exchange event with other peer research groups to share experiences about the peer research process, provide feedback on the manual, and refine the manual, ensuring that it effectively supports future peer research projects.
Presentation to the All-Party Parliamentary Group: Our findings will be compiled and presented to the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Temporary Accommodation to advocate for change, where we aim to promote more inclusive policies. We will emphasise how peer research provides insights that can lead to meaningful changes in the housing sector.
For more information on our project, please contact us at info@justlife.org.uk
[I have learned] that there is so much more to research than I originally realised and how what you're researching can be different for different intersectionalities.
Peer researcher
