UPTURN’s First PPI Group Meeting with Caribbean Communities: the importance of listening

As part of UPTURN’s continued dedication to inclusive patient and public involvement (PPI), Lorraine Lawrence, one of the EDI Community Researchers, recently chaired the first Caribbean community PPI group meeting, held virtually via Zoom on 22nd May 2025.The session provided an important platform for people of Caribbean heritage to share their lived experiences, concerns, and reflections related to COPD and lung health.

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One of the most powerful themes to emerge was the role of smoking within Black Caribbean communities, and how it intersects with cultural norms. Some of the members shared personal stories about how smoking was viewed when they were growing up, sometimes as a norm. Smoking was common among older generations, and it was often tied to stress, work environments, and social habits.

PPI members also highlighted how mainstream anti-smoking campaigns needed to be more visible, but often these messages failed to connect with Black audiences. The group discussed the importance of using trusted community channels like community groups, radio, and local leaders to communicate health messages.

This first session focused on listening and onboarding. The next meeting, scheduled in August, will explore in greater depth some of the themes raised in our broader PPI group.  We are keen to hear the views of PPI members in our community-specific groups on these topics, and value all input.

Lorraine would like to say a big thank you to everyone who joined and shared their thoughts in this important first meeting. Your voices are already helping guide the UPTURN project, and remind us that real equity in research starts with listening.