The answers came with the help of Dr Sally Lloyd- Evans, an expert in development geography, and her team of community researchers.
Starting in 2014, Dr Lloyd-Evans worked with local residents to create a community research network, known as the Whitley Researchers. The aim was to use participatory research to empower residents to take ownership of the project, working out what would have the most tangible impact in their lives. This led, in 2015, to a report on transport issues in the area and then, in partnership with local authorities, to the introduction of a new bus route by Reading Buses. Residents gained better access to local services such as schools, work and the hospital. Better yet, the Whitley Researchers have continued to work on developing their community, setting up a primary schools travel programme and establishing the ‘Whitley for Real’ partnership with Reading Borough Council to shape their strategy and help to tackle social inequalities in South Reading. Their recent project on financial exclusion will be published in 2017 and they are working with local secondary schools to build a team of young researchers to explore students’ experiences of growing up in South Reading, supporting their developing aspirations.
Shortlisted for the University Research Engagement and Impact Awards 2017
First published: June 2017