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On the 2 nd  of August 2025, the Igbo Union South Yorkshire, a 300-strong community, gathered in Sheffield to celebrate ‘IRI-JI’, the New Yam Festival.    IRI-JI marks harvest and thanksgiving. Even in diaspora, it anchors the calendar, identity, and intergenerational teaching of the Igbo community and its people. If you’re studying community resilience, start here: the festival serves as both a ritual and a social infrastructure. I (Ada Achinanya) came to the Iri-Ji as both participant and researcher/note-taker: feet in the drum circle, pen in the margins. This blog post braids the day’s rituals, which include the kolanut blessing, the first cut of yam, the dances, the masquerade, with the quiet lessons they teach about kinship, consent, youth mentorship, foodways, and civic belonging in diaspora. You’ll see the celebration exactly as it unfolded to me, and alongside it, my brief ‘researcher tips’ drawn from conversations, observation, and cultural protocols (always with permission, always with reciprocity in mind). My aim for this blog is simple: to honour the festival’s heartbeat while offering practical insights for anyone seeking to engage this community respectfully, so the scholarship deepens the relationship, not the other way around. Invitation Flyer The Doorway of the Kola-Nut (Iwa-Oji) I arrived to the sound of drums that felt like a heartbeat you could walk to. You could taste celebration in the air: pepper and palm oil, dust and laughter, a chorus of greetings that made strangers feel like cousins. It was one of those days that makes living in the ‘diaspora’ feel less like distance and more like a bridge. We began with ‘Iwa-Oji’, the kola-nut blessing. Elders lifted the nut like a small sun, speaking prayers that braided memory with hope, honouring ancestors, asking God for health, unity, and good harvests (in the UK, that means good work, good grades, and yes, sometimes actual allotment yams). When onye isi oji  (kola leader), split the kolanut, the room breathed out together, with a resounding ‘ise’  (meaning, Amen). Tips for researchers : When you arrive, greet elders first. Learn a few: Nnoo/Nnọọ (welcome), Kedu?  (How are you?). Observe the kola-nut ritual before interviews or photo-taking; it’s the community’s “opening ceremony” for the day’s social contract. Ask who the onye isi oji  (kola leader) is and request permission before recording. However, also remember that consent is layered; event permission ≠ personal consent. The First Slice of Plenty (Iwa-Ji) Next came ‘Iwa-Ji’, the ceremonial breaking of the new yam. The yam, stout, earthy, defiant, was lifted, blessed. The knife’s gentle press, the careful reveal, soft, white, steaming, sent a ripple of approval through the room. We clapped not merely for a tuber, but for survival, for harvests past and future, for the stubborn joy of a people who have weathered more than most and still insist on thanksgiving. Children pressed forward, eyes wide. An elder whispered to them that yams are the “king of crops,” a lesson about labour, land, and pride wrapped in a snack-sized metaphor. Tips for researchers : Iwa-Ji symbolises productivity and gratitude. If you’re documenting foodways, note that yam is also a character in Igbo storytelling, not just a crop. Capture the language used around it: ji , nri ji , onye oru  (a hardworking person). Masks, Muscles, and Motion The programme swung from solemn to ecstatic and back again. ‘Igbá Mgba’ (traditional wrestling) drew a ring of cheers and laughter. A circle opened, and two wrestlers faced off, sinew against sinew; the crowd punctuated each grip with shouts of counsel and delight. It’s sport, yes, but it’s also a masterclass in respect and controlled strength. Next, the ‘Agaba’ Masquerade swept in with a gust of mystery, raffia rustling, colours flashing, a presence that felt half-theatre, half-thunder. Children squealed and then leaned closer, the way we all do when fear and fascination hold hands. The ‘Atilogwu’ youth dancers were all electric, executing airborne flips and precise footwork, followed swiftly by the ‘Umu-oji’ women’s dance, which offered a counterpoint: grace, elegance, wrists and storytelling waists drawing cursive patterns in the air, following the beats of the drums. Tips for researchers : Masquerades (called mmanwụ ) occupy sacred-performative spaces; not all are suitable for casual filming. Always ask an organiser whether a specific troupe (e.g., masquerade, dancers) permits recording and clarify how the footage will be used. Offer to share copies with the group’s archive. What We Wore, What We Said Without Speaking The hall shimmered. Everywhere I looked, people wore their native attire. Women paired blouses with two wrappers knotted at the waist, and headscarves (called ichafu ) tied like crowns that knew their worth, all carrying stories on their hems. Men turned up in ‘isi-agu’ (lion-head) tops, wrappers or trousers, and red/black caps on tilted heads. Beads clicked softly, portable history in coral and brass. Tips for researchers :  In your dressing, business casual is fine, and when addressing people, use titles when introduced: Chief , Nze , Lolo , Sir/Madam . Compliment outfits and ask the story of a cloth’s motif or a bead set; attire often signals hometown, lineage, or title. If you photograph people, offer to airdrop or email the shots, and reciprocity builds trust. Eating what we celebrate The food,      OMG      the food! The food table was a constellation. Platters seemed to multiply. Bowls of abacha with fish (that tangy, irresistible Igbo salad) sat beside coleslaw (because diaspora is fusion). ‘Onugbu’ (bitter leaf soup) and egusi anchored the table, thick and fragrant, ready for every kind of swallow. There was rice with vegetable sauce, moi-moi, fried plantain, and a battalion of snacks, puff-puff, chin-chin, meat pies, circulating like edible confetti. For ‘dessert’, we laughed and licked our fingers over peppered gizzard and chicken suya, because who says sweetness can’t have heat? Everything was tasty and unapologetically generous. Aunties insisted on seconds with the kind of insistence that leaves you no honourable exit. Tips for researchers : Food is a consent-friendly conversation starter. Ask about ingredients, origins, and who taught the cook; you’ll certainly map migration routes and kin networks without a survey form. Regarding food etiquette, try what you’re offered unless you have allergies. If you decline, do so politely and explain your reason. A Civic Blessing       Lord Mayor of Sheffield Mid-afternoon brought a surge of pride as the Honourable Mayor of Sheffield, Councillor Safiya Saeed, arrived. The first female African Lord Mayor, leading a major city. Her presence drew cheers and the kind of applause that felt like a promise, saying, ‘Visibility matters.’ The mayor’s presence said: You belong here, not as guests, but as authors.   This was especially meaningful because the night before, at 7:10 pm, the event had been introduced live on BBC Radio Sheffield, Lincolnshire, Humber, and York, inviting the wider public to witness, and you could feel the difference, as new faces mingled with the regulars. Diaspora doesn’t whisper; it broadcasts.    Tips for researchers:  Track these civic touchpoints. Attendance by local officials isn’t symbolic fluff; it often unlocks venue access, funding pathways, and future partnerships. Ask organisers how they secured it; there’s a playbook hiding in plain sight. Lord Mayor and the Executives Memory, War, and the Will to Thrive People shared stories, some embroidered with humour, others shadowed by the ‘Biafran War’ (Nigerian Civil War, 1967-1970). And yet the through-line was unmistakable: resilience . There’s a saying I heard again: “If you go to a country and don’t find an Igbo person there, leave immediately; don’t invest.” It’s boastful, yes, but also a history lesson. A declaration that after hardship, industry became theology. You could see it in the vendors, the organisers ticking off logistics, and the way everyone cleaned the hall as if it were a grandmother’s sitting room. From the trauma of the Biafran war to the economies built in diaspora, “industrious” is not a stereotype here; it’s a survival skill. Tips for researchers:  Approach trauma histories with care. Let community members lead. Offer anonymity by default. Ask if there’s a preferred elder or historian ( Nze , Lolo , union PRO) to contextualise sensitive topics. What The Day Teaches What held me most was the intergenerational weave. Small hands tucked into larger ones during the blessing; teenagers watched the masquerade with a seriousness that read like study. Others, trying out steps from ‘Atilogwu’ dancers with the gravity of apprentices. Elders bent to their height to explain proverbs. You could see culture travelling the way it always has, hand to hand, laugh to laugh. By sunset, the drummers softened, and the hall smelled like wood polish and pepper soup. I felt that peculiar fullness festivals give you: fed, taught, and claimed. I also felt truly blessed to stand inside a tradition that endures, grateful to be part of a community that keeps its culture not in a museum case, but in motion, in music, in recipes, and in the way elders pass kola nuts and children learn the steps. To belong to a resilient species, one that plants itself wherever Igbo people settle and then bears fruit, year after year. ‘IRI-JI’ isn’t just a festival; it’s a community management system disguised as a party. It’s onboarding for the young, accountability for the titled, soft power for the diaspora, and a gift to the city that hosts us. Group Picture with Police Officers Tips for researchers:  If you come with humility and leave something useful behind, you won’t just study a festival; you’ll be welcomed back into a living tradition. And next August, when the yam returns, so will you. Author Dr. Ada Achinanya Research Associate

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. Designed by Freepik 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.

On 26th November 2024, in the heart of London, the UPTURN team hosted the first of our co-design workshops to begin the development of the UPTURN intervention to support attendance at pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) for people living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The day brought together a diverse group of participants, including COPD patients and their carers, representatives from Asthma + Lung UK, physiotherapists, specialist nurses, and researchers, all united by a common goal: to support people to access PR in ways that address key barriers and enhance accessibility, cultural relevance, and impact. Building the Foundation The first co-design workshop was more than just an event; it was the culmination of extensive research, planning, and collaboration. At the heart of this approach was UPTURN’s definition of co-design - bringing together lived experience and professional expertise to work in equal partnership to develop a defined service or product using a specified participatory design-led process. This principle guided the workshop’s structure, ensuring that COPD patients and their carers played an active role alongside healthcare professionals in shaping interventions that were practical, inclusive, and culturally appropriate. In preparation for the event, the team meticulously refined objectives, developed participatory activities, and created an environment where all voices could contribute meaningfully. The session began with warm refreshments and introductions, creating a welcoming atmosphere for dialogue. Participants reviewed key research findings, including logistical, cultural, and informational barriers to PR. This shared understanding set the stage for collaborative problem-solving. Creative Energy in Action The workshop’s first activity was a brainstorming session designed to generate innovative ideas. Participants at four themed tables addressed specific goals, such as increasing confidence in PR and removing practical and cultural obstacles. Armed with colourful sticky notes and open minds, attendees spent 40 minutes proposing ideas ranging from community-led promotion to tech-based solutions. A dot-voting system was used to prioritise ideas. Green dots highlighted the top ideas, while blue dots indicated promising but secondary concepts. This process gave every participant a voice and surfaced a shortlist of actionable solutions. Stories That Shape Solutions The post-lunch storytelling session was the workshop's highlight. Participants were introduced to ‘personas, derived from our primary data collection and analysis of the literature. These personals representing diverse COPD patients, carers, and healthcare professionals. Each table explored how their shortlisted ideas could impact these characters’ journeys to accessing PR. For example, Azra, a non-English-speaking patient, imagined receiving support from a bilingual community health worker who explained PR benefits in her language. Meanwhile, Abdul, facing stigma, gained confidence through peer-led testimonials and relatable PR materials. These narratives helped participants empathise with real-world challenges while testing the feasibility of their solutions. Through this exercise, nuanced insights emerged. How can testimonials from community members be used to encourage others to attend PR? Would a supportive phone call help address fears and concerns? The rich discussion shaped our thoughts on how the UPTURN intervention can address these questions. As we move forward, the insights gained from this session will be further explored and developed by Asthma & Lung, the UPTURN research team, and our community user testing groups before the next co-design session in Spring 2025. Shared Reflections and What’s Next This workshop exemplified the power and potential of co-design. By centering lived experience and drawing on multidisciplinary expertise, the team generated a wide range of practical ideas to inform the development of the UPTURN intervention. The enthusiasm, creativity, and shared commitment of everyone involved created a foundation for meaningful change. As the day concluded, participants reflected on the workshop’s success and outlined the next steps. The ideas generated will be transformed into prototypes for testing before the next workshop, scheduled for April. The goal is to refine our ideas into an intervention that is inclusive, effective, and adaptable to diverse needs. Stay tuned as we continue our co-design journey! Authors: Dr MMG Rabbani Dr Ada Achinanya Dr Tahsin Tabassum Lorraine Lawrence Sara Langston Dr James Ward Dr Timos Kipouros Dr Amanda Moore

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) are integral to conducting impactful health and care research that can improve outcomes for all groups in society. On 21 st  May 2025, the UPTURN EDI team was delighted to attend the 14th Making Diversity Interventions Count Annual Conference , held at the University of Bradford. Bradford – city of culture 2025. City of incredible cultural diversity. And the city in which, many moons ago, I (Suman) did my undergraduate degree in Social Sciences. And so I was thrilled to return, this time with the UPTURN Community Researchers, to deliver a 1-hour workshop on ‘Embedding EDI in Health and Care Research: the UPTURN intervention’. The day turned out to be one of deep learning, inspiring conversations, and meaningful networking.   Pic 1: UPTURN EDI Workstream team Keynote talks and key takeaways The morning – crisp outside and brimming with excitement inside the auditorium – started with presentations from prominent leaders in the EDI field. Professor Udy Archibong (Pro Vice Chancellor, EDI, University of Bradford) hosted the conference and reflected on the plethora of diversity statements posted after the murder of George Floyd, current challenges, and threats to moving towards greater inclusivity. She stressed the importance of celebrating diversity and our shared humanity, especially during times of turbulence and anti-EDI (or DEI) sentiment.  Pascal Matthias (Associate Vice President EDI and Social Justice, Southampton University) followed, and had the audience captivated with his compelling talk on inclusive education for all, the importance of compassion, and urgent need for accountability. Inequalities in educational attainment persist and, while universities are good at raising awareness of this, Pascal stressed the need “ to move from awareness to accountability…Accountability is the discipline of action…Awareness without accountability is theatre, it’s performance .”   Farrah Qureshi (CEO & Founder, Global Diversity Practice & Inclusion Intelligence) reflected on challenges to EDI across the globe, and changing language and terms. She questioned whether we were witnessing the death of DEI or a rebirth into something better. She highlighted the importance of lived experience, and learning from efforts and initiatives being carried out in a range of countries around the world.      EDI in the UPTURN study Our workshop started with my presentation on the importance of embedding EDI in health and care research, from study design to dissemination. Ethnic minority (global majority) groups make up around 18% of the population in England and Wales (1) but are underrepresented in health research. This leads to gaps in knowledge, disparities in care, and inequalities in health outcomes. Conducting inclusive research helps ensure that studies address the needs and experiences of diverse populations, making findings more applicable (2). The UPTURN study includes an EDI Workstream throughout the 5-year NIHR-funded programme, and so we are continually reflecting on diversity in terms of the people and processes involved (3). This includes the research team, PPI groups and steering committees, as well as inclusivity in terms of recruitment, study materials, and the languages and formats that these are available in. Lorraine followed next with a talk on the vital role of community engagement and building trust. This includes listening, learning, and transparency about the study goals and benefits to communities. Patient and Public Involvement is crucial too, and Rabbani emphasised the key role of the five PPI groups contributing to the UPTURN study. We have a broad PPI group for all communities, and four smaller groups for Bangladeshi men, Bangladeshi women, Caribbean communities, and African communities – groups that are disproportionately affected by COPD. Study materials need to be accessible to all the communities we are working with, and Tahsin gave a practical example of our work with Bangladeshi patients and carers. This included recruitment through community leaders and centres; developing culturally appropriate recruitment videos; and conducting interviews and focus groups in English, Bengali and Sylheti. Ada wrapped up by highlighting the importance of reflexivity, identity and team dynamics. Awareness of, and ongoing reflection on, how these influence the research process is essential, as well as acknowledging power dynamics.     Pic 2a – collage of individual talks in order of presentation Workshop discussion and feedback Small group discussions followed our brief presentations, and aimed to support reflection on the challenges and opportunities to improving diversity in health research. This was an opportunity for participants to share their experiences, ask questions, and exchange knowledge and learning on conducting inclusive research. Engaged participants, mostly researchers, were keen to share some critical points: the strengths of diverse teams with researchers fluent in multiple languages, and with knowledge and skills to work with a range of ethnic minority groups translation of study materials into relevant community languages, including questionnaires where possible importance of cultural humility and outreach activities with community organisations hearing about the experiences of other researchers and sharing learning reflexivity in the moment, and not just when conducting interviews or analysing the data awareness of community expectations of the research and how these may differ from what the study can deliver training needed for researchers to support them to be able to conduct inclusive research   Food for thought…. One of the highlights of the conference was connecting with others working in the fulfilling, important, challenging, and ever-evolving space of ‘EDI’. It felt validating and affirming as much as it was thought-provoking, and some of the discussions on hope and compassion particularly resonated. We reflected on these afterwards too. Bradford is famous for its ‘curries’, and we couldn’t leave without a debrief over some sumptuous food and tantalising flavours. The perfect end to an inspirational day, and a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our first year of working together as a team.   Pic 3 – debrief in restaurant Acknowledgements We are grateful to Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre who provided funding for us to attend the conference.   References 2021 Census: https://www.ethnicity-facts-figures.service.gov.uk/uk-population-by-ethnicity/national-and-regional-populations/population-of-england-and-wales/latest/   Prinjha S, Miah N, Ali E, Farmer A .  Including ‘seldom heard’ views in research: opportunities, challenges and recommendations from focus groups with British South Asian people with type 2 diabetes.  BMC Med Res Methodol   20 , 157 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12874-020-01045-4 The UPTURN study: https://www.fundingawards.nihr.ac.uk/award/NIHR204401     Author: Suman Prinjha (EDI Lead, UPTURN)   UPTURN Community Researchers Ada Achinanya Lorraine Lawrence Rabbani Golam Tahsin Tabassum

From Columbia to South Africa, we gathered in Lisbon to explore co-design Twenty-six participants from 10 countries joined us in Lisbon last month to get practical hands-on experience of using creative co-design methods and to consider how best to use these methods along-side the behaviour change wheel. UPTURN Behavioural Scientist Dr Amanda Moore was joined by Dr Ana Gama (NOVA School of Public Health, Lisbon) to deliver an activity-packed, full-day workshop. It was great to use our experiences and data from UPTURN to help guide the practical activities and explore the thorny question of how best to integrate a participatory co-design mind set with more rigid behavioural science intervention design frameworks to develop effective, co-designed interventions. Co-design as a participatory approach Co-design is central to the ethos of the UPTURN study. There’s a lot of confusion about the ‘co-’ words! To echo the most common framing of co-design and co-production, co-design is a category within the co-production umbrella that follows pre-determined steps of a collaborative design process with the end goal of designing a specific product or service (1). The 4 key principles of co-production apply to co-design – a sharing of power, use of participatory methods to ensure equitable engagement of all stakeholders, a relationship mindset to build a long-term partnership (one thing co-design isn’t, is a group of researchers nipping in to do a workshop with a community and then disappearing again!) and a mindset of building capacity of all partners (2). What differentiates co-design from co-production more generally, is the use of a defined design-led process to develop a specific service or product. On the UPTURN study our definition of co-design is: “Bringing together lived experience and professional expertise to work in equal partnership to develop a defined service or product using a specified participatory design-led process.” (UPTURN Study, 2024) Central to the ethos of co-design is to work in partnership with the individuals the service is intended to support, throughout the design process. Crucially, when considering working with people from minoritised ethnic groups, who may face barriers associated with language or health literacy, we must consider developing creative ways to capture lived experience stories and involve people in the process in an accessible way. That means working hard to engage those facing the greatest inequities and thinking beyond traditional qualitative methods, such as interviews and focus groups. Co-design follows the Design Council double diamond approach of moving from exploration the problem space, through to defining the problem or scope, and ideating, prototyping and testing potential solutions, iterating and refining your ideas. It is an adaptive, flexible, creative approach where ideas are developed from collective input of the co-design team. Figure 1: Schematic representation of the double-diamond design process (Modified from Lewrick 2020 and the Design Council) The importance of developing interventions in a theoretical informed way From a behaviour science perspective, we know that interventions are more likely to be effective if they are theoretically informed (3, 4). The Behaviour Change Wheel (5) is a framework for developing interventions, which synthesises 19 behaviour change frameworks. It is a useful step-by-step framework to take the intervention designer from specifying the behaviour, carrying out a behavioural diagnosis, through to choosing appropriate intervention functions and associated evidence-based behaviour change techniques (BCTs) to inform the choice of intervention components. Developing your intervention in this way allows the documentation of the theory of change from the understanding of barriers and enablers influencing the performance of the behaviour, through to the mechanisms of actions through which your intervention will bring about change, to the linked core active ingredients of the intervention – the BCTs, such as Goal setting or Social comparison. This clear evidence chain of the theory of change of the intervention allows interventions to be replicated and evaluated much more easily as there is a clear understanding of how the intervention is intended to change the behaviour in question (see Figure 2). In UPTURN we have used the Behaviour Change Wheel to understand the barriers and enablers to engaging with PR and identify potential behaviour change techniques to address these.  This formed the basis of the design brief for our series of co-design workshops. Figure 2: Summary of COM-B and the Behaviour Change Wheel Process (Michie 2014) Practical activities based on the UPTURN data Our Lisbon workshop participants used UPTURN as a case study throughout the day. This included reviewing some of the findings of the exploratory UPTURN research, in terms of the barriers and enablers to engagement and attendance at PR and role playing using our UPTURN co-design personas, developed from the UPTURN data. Figure 3: Barriers and Enablers to PR - data from the UPTURN study Activities involved engagement with a range of generative co-design methods including plasticine modelling to explore lived experiences of COPD, structured brainstorming, journey mapping of the COPD patient journey to PR and running a feedback grid session to gain user feedback on intervention components. Outcomes and creating a network to support intervention designers The session was over-subscribed and one participant reported ‘a truly hands-on and insightful session’, that was ‘absolutely mind-blowing’. Takeaways included: ‘co-design means shared power not just consultation; positive strength-based approaches enhance community engagement and ownership; and trust takes time but is essential for meaningful change’. The group were so engaged we have decided to set up a practitioner network – The Co-design for Behaviour Change Network. Our new network meets quarterly and is an opportunity to collaborate and share learning.  You can join the network to learn about our seminars and to have access to resources here: https://forms.office.com/e/p8XyF2PP35 References 1.             Robert G, Locock L, Williams O, Cornwell J, Donetto S, Goodrich J. Co-Producing and Co-Designing. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press; 2022. Available from: https://www.cambridge.org/core/product/157832BBAE1448211365D396CD110900 . 2.             McKercher KA. Beyond sticky notes. Cammeraygal: Inscope Books; 2020. 3.             Michie S, Fixsen D, Grimshaw JM, Eccles MP. Specifying and reporting complex behaviour change interventions: the need for a scientific method. Implement Sci. 2009; 4:40. 4.             Michie S, Webb TL, Sniehotta FF. The importance of making explicit links between theoretical constructs and behaviour change techniques. Addiction. 2010; 105:1897-8. 5.             Michie S, Van Stralen MM, West R. The behaviour change wheel: a new method for characterising and designing behaviour change interventions. Implementation science. 2011; 6:1-12.

We’d love to introduce you to our team. There are a few new faces around here! Introduction Four new Community Researchers joined the UPTURN team in April 2024, and are based at the University of York. The Researchers will be working on the 5-year NIHR-funded UPTURN study. The project focuses on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, commonly referred to as COPD, which is a progressive lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. Each researcher will focus on community engagement and research activities, including gaining consent from participants taking part in the study, recruitment, conducting focus groups and interviews. Participants who are eligible will be invited to help co-design the UPTURN support package which aims to help COPD patients who have been referred to Pulmonary Rehabilitation. Dr. Ada Achinanya Dr. Ada Achinanya, a qualitative researcher, will be working with African communities. She has worked on a range of projects including fertility care, inflammatory bowel disease, and mental health. Ada’s experience spans capacity-building in low-middle-income countries, policy development with the Gambian Ministry of Health, and creating interventions for young people with chronic illnesses. In her previous role, she has collaborated with diverse groups, including African Caribbean-led social care providers, and explored the challenges faced by people with complex mental health difficulties in an NIHR study with Sheffield Health and Social Care. Ada said, “Joining the UPTURN-EDI Workstream Group to support Bangladeshi, Black African, and Caribbean communities to access pulmonary rehabilitation is a thrilling opportunity. I look forward to leveraging my background to identify barriers and develop effective solutions. As I often say, ‘People begin to heal the moment they feel heard’. I am excited to contribute to this important project and work with such a dedicated team. Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those we aim to serve. Ada is devoted to murder mysteries and can recite every episode of Peter Falk’s Columbo. Aside from being a sleuth, she also enjoys baking and creates edible enchantment. Living in Sheffield you can be sure to catch Ada walking in the Peak District with her Labrador Ms Lorraine Lawrence Ms. Lorraine Lawrence will be working to recruit people from Caribbean communities. Lorraine has experience of working in community engagement and partnership building with Caribbean and African communities. As a Community Engagement Officer, Lorraine gained hands-on experience in managing Black Leaders Networks for three of Greater Manchester’s 10 localities, including Tameside, Bolton and Trafford. As part of her Researcher role, Lorraine was involved in engaging and recruiting participants from Black communities to focus groups. Lorraine is delighted to be part of the University of York’s UPTURN EDI research group to support Caribbean, African and Bangladeshi communities in accessing Pulmonary Rehabilitation. Being a mother to a 14 month old is undoubtedly a wonderful and fulfilling role, and finding time for hobbies like reading can be a challenge. However, Lorraine participates in an online book club as she finds it enriching to discuss books with others who share her passion, and to explore different interpretations and insights together. It also provides a valuable opportunity to connect with others and enjoy some well deserved relaxation time. M M Golam Rabbani M M Golam Rabbani (He/Him) is a researcher, filmmaker, and environmental activist of Bengali heritage. He earned his PhD in Environment and Geography from the University of York and has worked as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Lancaster Environment Centre (LEC). His research has focused on climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction in South Asia, and circular sanitation and science education in four African countries. Rabbani specialises in qualitative research methods, including interviews, photo-elicitation, focus groups and surveys, using NVivo, PQMethod and SPSS for data analysis. He is excited to join the UPTURN-EDI Research team to co-design and implement Rehabilitation Packages for COPD patients, aiming to engage with Bangladeshi, Black African, and Caribbean communities in England. When Rabbani is not filmmaking he finds joy in the kitchen and adventure on the road. Cooking allows him to explore flavours and cultures right from his home, while travelling gives him the chance to discover new ingredients, techniques and dishes to bring back to his own culinary creations. Whether he’s experimenting with a new recipe or planning his next getaway, he is always in pursuit of new experiences and tastes. Tahsin Tabbasum Tahsin Tasneem Tabassum is a public health professional from Bangladesh based in Leeds. After completing her medical studies, she undertook postgraduate degrees in Public Health from the Universities of York and Bangladesh,  and has a strong background in both clinical and preventive medicine. Tahsin has participated in mixed method health research projects on diverse topics including chronic diseases, COVID-19, geriatric mental health, and addiction behaviours. Tahsin has been involved in a number of projects, one of which focused on the caregiver burden of schizophrenia patients, and the other focusing on dietary compliance and physical activity compliance among patients with Severe Mental Illness. She has also received training in the Department of Psychiatry, which has given her the expertise to successfully navigate the challenging terrain of working with a plethora of populations from different demographics. Away from work Tahsin enjoys reading mystery and crime books, which draws her into the intellectual challenge of piecing together clues and solving puzzles, as well as being immersed in the suspense - which keeps her engaged. Dr Suman Prinjha Dr Suman Prinjha is a Senior Research Fellow (Associate Professor) at University of York. She is a qualitative researcher with over 20 years’ postdoctoral experience and a BACP-registered psychotherapist. She leads research into health inequalities, ethnic minority health, and patients’ experiences of illness and healthcare. Suman is Co-Investigator and EDI Workstream lead on the UPTURN study, leading work on the inclusion of Bangladeshi, Black African and Caribbean communities to all the work packages. She is delighted to be working with a fantastic team of Community Researchers on an exciting study that will generate important learning and impact for communities, researchers and funders.  When Suman isn't working, she likes switching off as much as she can and is a huge fan of meditation. She also enjoys travelling, eating out, and walking in the countryside. She has lived and worked in England, Thailand and South Korea, and is currently enjoying living in Bedfordshire. Participant Recruitment Flyers Community Researchers joined the University of York in April 2024, working on the 5-year UPTURN study. The project focuses on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, commonly referred to as COPD, which is a progressive lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. For further information on COPD visit COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) | Asthma + Lung UK ( asthmaandlung.org.uk ) Researchers will work with people from a range of ethnic minorit y backgrounds, including those from Bangladeshi, Caribbean and African c ommunities to co- design  a support package for people living with COPD. Researchers aim to rais e awareness of COPD across commu nities ,  including sympt oms, treatments, cultural beliefs, access to healthcare, and lifestyle changes  that c ould  impact the prevalence and management of COPD. To find out more about the project see link UPTURN study | CUH

In October this year (2024) I took the big decision to undertake a PhD alongside my role as a Community Researcher on the 5-year NIHR-funded UPTURN study. It is early days but, so far, balancing the responsibilities of a full-time PhD programme and a research career has been an enriching and fulfilling experience for me.   As both my PhD and Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) researcher roles are based at the University of York, working on them together is helping me grow professionally and giving me many more opportunities to make a meaningful impact on health equity in underserved communities. Overlapping interests between PhD and UPTURN research role My PhD research focuses on Severe Mental Illness (SMI) in South Asia, and specifically on modifying health risk behaviours (such as smoking, poor dietary patterns, irregular physical activity) and improving lifestyle outcomes for people often underrepresented in research. As an UPTURN EDI workstream researcher, I am exploring Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and the uptake of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in Bangladeshi, African, and Caribbean communities across England. Although these topics might appear to be unrelated, they both focus on health disparities and systemic inequities—a common thread that highlights my dedication to improving health outcomes for marginalised communities.   Insights into South Asian Health Experiences Both my PhD and research role are enabling me to have a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by South Asian populations when accessing healthcare – whether in England or in South Asia (Bangladesh, India and Pakistan). As a Bangladeshi researcher working with Bangladeshi communities in both England and Bangladesh, my cultural and linguistic skills and knowledge are proving invaluable. They help me create trust, connect meaningfully with communities, and ensure that the study findings are relevant. My lived experience also enables me to traverse complicated cultural nuances and helps me to contribute to developing more inclusive and impactful health solutions. My work on the UPTURN project is helping me learn more about culturally sensitive approaches to health promotion and interventions. My hands-on experience in this EDI role is also enabling me to better contextualise and address mental health inequalities in my PhD research. This bidirectional learning is increasing my awareness of cultural competency and its significance in research and practice.   Transferable Skills Balancing the demands of a PhD with a dynamic research post is providing me with a diverse set of transferable skills that go far beyond academia. Time management and prioritisation are two of the most important competencies that I have gained, allowing me to accomplish the goals of both professions so far while maintaining excellent work standards. In both roles, I am developing strong qualitative and quantitative research skills. From conducting interviews and focus groups to analysing massive datasets, I am developing a balanced understanding of these complementary methodologies. Furthermore, my ongoing experience of trial design and implementation is increasing my understanding of how research translates into practical, evidence-based interventions, a skill set that will be very useful in future work. Collaboration has become another key component of my development. Working in two large multidisciplinary teams is helping me understand different points of view, promote shared goals, and be part of two productive and inclusive research groups. This experience is teaching me the importance of adaptability, empathy, and clear communication in achieving collective goals. In terms of the so-called ‘soft skills’, I am working on and learning resilience, flexibility, and critical problem-solving. My dual professions are also increasing my emotional intelligence, particularly in understanding and responding to the needs of underprivileged groups. This is helping me to be me more sensitive to cultural differences and the importance of developing inclusive research programmes. The Research Environment The University of York provides a strong and supportive research environment, which is benefitting my career in many ways. I did my Master’s here and wanted to continue working at York afterwards. Its interdisciplinary approach, strong mentoring culture, and commitment to addressing global issues makes it an ideal setting for early career researchers like me. Having both my PhD and Community Researcher roles at the same institution is also enabling me to leverage shared resources, collaborate on various networks, and seamlessly transfer ideas from one to the other. Gratitude for Guidance and Support I credit much of my progress to the incredible mentorship and support that I have received. My PhD supervisors’ recommendations influenced my study direction and inspired me to think critically about the challenges of mental health in South Asia. Similarly, my line manager and coworkers on the UPTURN EDI workstream have been sources of inspiration and collaboration. Their dedication to addressing health disparities, as well as their encouragement, have made combining these responsibilities not only possible but also enjoyable. I appreciate the flexibility and understanding of both my PhD and EDI teams. The mutual acknowledgment of the difficulties of my two roles has resulted in a collaborative rather than competitive environment, each role supporting the other. Future Directions Reflecting on the start of my journey, I am grateful for the opportunities and support that are enabling me to grow personally and professionally. Balancing a PhD and a research career is difficult but also rewarding. The skills, insights, and experiences that I have gained already will continue to shape my approach to research going forward and my passion for health equity. Tahsin Tabassum, MBBS, MPH PhD Student, SCIMITAR EDI Researcher (UPTURN Study) Department of Health Sciences University of York

On 13th February 2025, the Bangladesh Association and Community Project (BACP) organized a vibrant and impactful community health fair in Rochdale. Timed to coincide with Heart Month, the event brought together various health and care organizations, including LivingWell Rochdale, the Diabetic Eye Screening Programme, High Level (an addiction recovery support service), Rochdale District and Mind (a mental health service provider), Genes and Health Manchester, and MEASURE, among others. The UPTURN study also played a pivotal role in the success of this event. Rochdale Health Fair Flyer Our goal at this event was to raise awareness of the UPTURN project, COPD, and pulmonary rehabilitation (PR). The fair, which included the attendance of the Mayor of Rochdale,  had over 300 visitors and was covered by journalists from print and community media, ensuring that its outcomes were shared widely . The meticulous planning by BACP ensured broad participation from local healthcare providers and research organizations. Attendees had access to a wealth of resources, including health education materials, free health screening, and opportunities to discuss healthcare issues with experts. This holistic approach facilitated direct connections between residents and local health services, enhancing awareness of locally available care and support tailored to community needs. UPTURN at the Rochdale Health Fair The huge number of attendees from various backgrounds highlighted to us the importance of tailored interventions and how these are more likely to encourage diverse participation. Community researchers from UPTURN offered visitors health information about COPD. We displayed leaflets and flyers and were happy to answer any questions the visitors came up with. Many visitors expressed genuine interest in understanding how UPTURN will be addressing challenges faced by people with COPD and the innovative approach we are taking to help make PR more accessible. We had a sign-up sheet so that interested participants could jot down their contact details and receive updates. Seeing the joy and pride on the faces of community members on learning that the Community Researchers, who are members of the Bangladeshi community themselves, were making a concerted effort to promote health awareness across disadvantaged communities was one of the highlights of the day. The researchers’ efforts to raise awareness of PR in underserved communities, and to support the codesign of the UPTURN intervention, delighted visitors. They provided feedback, personal stories, and ideas that emphasized the significance of our effort. While the UPTURN community researchers were there to share their work, they also took the opportunity to explore other stalls and learn from the incredible initiatives being led by different organizations. It was inspiring to see so many groups working tirelessly to improve health awareness at the community level. The Community Researchers exchanged ideas, gathered feedback, and discussed potential collaborations, all of which help strengthen Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) endeavors. Rabbani speaking to an attendee Throughout the day, the Community Researchers mingled with people from diverse backgrounds and communities, all united by a common goal: to create a healthier, more equitable society. These interactions were enriching and a testament to the importance of building bridges across communities. The Community Researchers left the fair with a wealth of new connections, fresh perspectives, and a renewed sense of purpose. The Rochdale Pre-Ramadan Health Fair was a reminder of the incredible potential that lies within communities when they come together to support one another. UPTURN is proud to be part of this work, and the Community Researchers are now more motivated than ever to continue their work: guided by the feedback, stories, and aspirations of community members. Tahsin (left) and Rabbani (right) standing with the Mayor of Rochdale   Reducing Health Inequalities Community health fairs like this play a crucial role in addressing health inequalities, particularly within ethnic minority communities. By offering free health screening and educational resources, these events bridge gaps between the general public and the research community, promoting preventative care and empowering people to make informed health decisions. For example, the focus of the fair on respiratory health provided a platform for local residents to learn about COPD—a condition that disproportionately affects people from deprived and minority backgrounds. Many visitors shared their experiences, raising concerns about the challenges they face when accessing healthcare. These conversations help researchers and healthcare providers develop culturally appropriate interventions and services that are sensitive to the unique needs of ethnic minority communities. Moreover, the event highlighted the role of social determinants of health, such as housing conditions, language barriers, and socioeconomic status, which often contribute to disparities in healthcare outcomes. Community Engagement and Health Awareness Health fairs are not just about providing medical information—they also encourage a sense of community and shared responsibility for health and well-being. The Pre-Ramadan Health Fair highlighted how culturally relevant engagement strategies can increase participation and improve health literacy. By incorporating elements like henna, which holds cultural significance for many attendees, the event created an environment where visitors felt welcomed and respected, promoting a sense of community. Henna on hands The presence of mental health services, addiction recovery programs, and chronic disease management resources demonstrated the comprehensive approach of the organizers toward community well-being. This multidisciplinary approach ensured that attendees could address multiple aspects of their health in one setting. Summing up….. By providing opportunities for health screening, education, and direct engagement with healthcare providers, these events contribute to improving health literacy among local residents. They empower people to take proactive steps toward healthier lifestyles and foster collaboration between healthcare providers and community members. For ethnic minority communities, health events such as the Pre-Ramadan Health Fair in Rochdale, offer a crucial platform to address health inequalities and promote preventative care. Authors:  Dr M M Golam Rabbani and Tahsin Tabassum, Community Researchers at UPTURN, University of York, UK Acknowledgments: We are very grateful to Karen Glerum-Brooks, PPI and Stakeholder Engagement Manager, York Trials Unit, who invited us to attend the event and collaborate with her to share our work. We are also thankful to all the members of BACP who provided an incredible venue, a huge audience, excellent suggestions, and delicious food.

At UPTURN, our mission is to improve lung health, and a core part of this is ensuring that our research and interventions are relevant, accessible, and beneficial to everyone. This commitment is why Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) is absolutely vital to our work. PPI isn't just a box to tick; it's about building genuine partnerships with the communities we aim to serve, bringing equal, diverse, and inclusive perspectives directly to the heart of the project. By listening to and collaborating with people who have lived experience, we can co-develop an intervention, such as a Pulmonary Rehabilitation (PR) package, that truly reflects patients’ needs and circumstances. This collaborative approach enhances equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in health research. We have formed five patient public involvement (PPI) groups to ensure our research reflects real society. The broad PPI group comprises ten members from all ethnicities and walks of life. We also formed four community-specific PPI groups, each comprising five members: Bangladeshi Men, Bangladeshi Women, African, and Caribbean. Recently, I, MMG Rabbani, one of UPTURN’s community researchers, facilitated the first online community-specific PPI meeting with five British Bangladeshi men. The meeting brought together a diverse group, including a COPD patient, a carer, a community champion, a faith leader, and a media representative. The conversation took place in Bangla, Sylheti and English and consent was obtained to record for reporting purposes. The goal was to gather their unique insights to help shape the UPTURN project and ensure its inclusiveness. The discussions highlighted several key areas where community perspectives are invaluable for ensuring EDI in health research. The PPI members spoke candidly about the challenges they face. For example, health literacy was identified as a significant issue within British Bangladeshi communities, with many people reportedly unaware of the causes of common conditions like diabetes, asthma, and hypertension. This underscores the need for health information to be clear, accessible, and culturally appropriate. The conversation also highlighted powerful communication channels. The PPI group members emphasised the influential role of media, particularly television, Facebook, and WhatsApp, in disseminating health messages. Crucially, there is a high demand for engaging health content in the Bangla language. Understanding these preferred communication approaches is vital for UPTURN. Another invaluable insight came from the discussion about the role of faith. Faith can significantly shape health behaviours, and integrating health awareness messages into religious practices holds great potential. For example, PPI members suggested that Friday Khutbahs (sermons) could be an impactful avenue, potentially drawing on Quranic verses and Hadith to promote healthy living. Involving faith leaders in community health events was also recommended as a way to enhance trust and sustainable engagement. Direct accounts from the COPD patient and his family member (as a carer) provided insights into the reality of living with the condition. They described how coexisting conditions, such as arthritis, can compound daily struggles and significantly affect quality of life. A patient also shared that his conditions make it difficult for him to speak at length, a crucial piece of information for anyone designing interventions or communication strategies involving patients. Other carers also shared their experiences. The  PPI members also touched on occupational hazards, a topic with significant implications for respiratory health. Participants noted that stress linked with job insecurity and financial worries is a major driver of smoking among first-generation British Bangladeshi migrants. Furthermore, concerns were raised about many Bangladeshi migrants working in South Asian restaurants not necessarily by choice, but due to limited skillsets, social networks, and employment options. Worryingly, poor indoor air quality in restaurant kitchens was highlighted as a potential issue that is rarely monitored. Understanding these unique occupational and social stressors is vital for developing holistic health interventions. These rich discussions underscore why PPI is essential in research. Without input from people with lived experience and community leaders, health research risks ignoring the real-world barriers, cultural nuances, and specific needs of diverse populations. By involving community members as collaborators, UPTURN can ensure that our research questions are relevant, our methods are sensitive, our communication strategies are effective, and our interventions are practical and acceptable to the British Bangladeshi community and other diverse groups in the UK. The insights gained from this meeting will help the pulmonary rehabilitation package be more culturally appropriate. This meeting was a testament to the power of collaboration and the vital role that community members play in making health research truly inclusive.   Author: Dr M M Golam Rabbani Community Researcher at UPTURN, University of York, UK Note: The images are taken from other events.

I was delighted to be invited to attend the Health Expo Event at the Rainbow Centre, which took place on Bank Holiday Monday 5th May 2025 in Manchester. I arrived at the community centre, where I was warmly greeted by Lesmond Taylor, one of the organisers of the event, and an ex colleague who I have had the pleasure of working with in the past. The Rainbow Centre is a unique Caribbean and African user-led intergenerational project. Serving both Crumpsall and Cheetham Hill, the centre plays a vital role in areas recognised as some of the most ethnically diverse in Europe, and two of the most deprived areas in Manchester. To find out more about the organisation visit https://rainbowcommunitycentre.org.uk/ Health Expo Flyer. The event was dedicated to addressing health inequalities within the local community of Crumpsall. The Expo proved to be a fantastic opportunity for local residents to connect with various health professionals and community leaders, and to engage in meaningful discussions about culturally competent care and health challenges. There were presentations about breast and prostate cancer awareness, and strategies for promoting healthy lifestyles, and I was also able to speak to people about the UPTURN project. UPTURN Flyers. One particularly valuable offering at the event was the opportunity to have my own health check. I decided to take advantage of this, and the process included having a blood test to gain insights into my health. I must have experienced apprehension during the procedure as I was not willing to part with my blood! Despite this, the health check was a positive experience overall. Attendees at the event. The Health Expo was more than just an event, it was testament to the dedication of the organiser’s, the health professionals, and the community in promoting a healthier future for all. I came away from the event with a lasting impression, which reinforced the importance of accessible health information and proactive community engagement. Thank you Lesmond and team for the invitation. I look forward to continuing our relationship with the Rainbow Centre. We also welcome Lesmond as a member of the UPTURN Caribbean PPI Group.