Examples of BTRU PPIE activities
We believe that research should never happen in isolation. Patients and members of the public bring unique insights that help us ask the right questions, design better studies, and communicate our findings in ways that matter. That’s why Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) is woven into every stage of our work—from shaping research priorities to reviewing study materials and sharing results.
Our PPIE partners don’t just observe; they actively contribute. They help us make complex science understandable, ensure our projects reflect real-world needs, and strengthen the connection between researchers and the communities we serve. Through events, workshops, and collaborative initiatives, we create opportunities for dialogue and partnership that make our research more relevant, inclusive, and impactful.
If you’re new to PPIE or want to understand some of the terms we use, visit our Key Terminology glossary. It’s a helpful resource for anyone interested in learning more about the language of research and engagement.
Below, you’ll find examples of the activities our PPIE members have been involved in. Each one demonstrates the power of collaboration and the difference it makes when patient voices guide innovation.
Patient voices power AI health study
A new NIHR BTRU study has received the green light to use health data and artificial intelligence to advance precision cellular therapies. Central to this project are patient partners, whose insights ensure the research reflects real-world needs and ethical standards. Their involvement shapes how data is used, safeguards privacy, and guides meaningful outcomes for patients.
Community events and celebrations - summer 2025
This summer, the NIHR BTRU in Precision Cellular Therapeutics joined local festivals to share cutting-edge research in fun, interactive ways. From Birmingham's 125th Anniversary Festival to Handsworth Park's Simmer Down, the team connected with communities, inspired future scientists, and showed how public voices shape research.
Patients Lead the Way in Plain Language Challenge 2025
The NIHR BTRU launched a Plain Language Summary competition to make complex science clear and accessible. Patient partners played a key role—judging entries, sharing insights, and ensuring summaries truly speak to the people research aims to help. Their involvement highlights how collaboration makes science more transparent and meaningful.
Patient partners connecting at the haematology care event
The NIHR BTRU team attended a key haematology event to share updates and strengthen collaborations. Patient partners joined the team to network with clinicians, researchers, and industry representatives—bringing the patient perspective into conversations and helping build relationships that keep research grounded in real-world needs.
Measuring what matters - with patients at the heart
The NIHR BTRU is working to identify outcomes that truly matter to patients in precision cellular therapy research. Patient partners are central to this effort, sharing their experiences and priorities to guide the development of meaningful measures. Their input ensures that research focuses on what makes the biggest difference to real lives.
Patient partners engage with NHS blood and transplant
The NIHR BTRU team visited the NHS Blood and Transplant facility to strengthen collaboration and explore how research translates into practice. Patient partners joined the visit, bringing their perspectives to conversations with staff and helping ensure that future developments remain focused on patient needs. Their involvement made the engagement more meaningful and grounded in real experience.
Patient partners support researcher training
The NIHR BTRU team recently ran training sessions for early-career researchers, focusing on patient and public involvement in research. Patient partners played a vital role by sharing their perspectives and experiences, helping researchers understand the real-world impact of their work. Their input ensures that future studies remain patient-centred from the start.
Patient partners explore the lab behind the research
The NIHR BTRU recently hosted an engaging lab event, giving patient partners a rare opportunity to step inside the research environment. They toured the facilities, met scientists, and saw first hand how precision cellular therapies are developed. This experience strengthened connections and deepened understanding, ensuring patients remain at the heart of our work.
