Putting Me into Memory Services Study

This research method is a creative approach to investigating people’s experiences and views through the visual expression of photos, taken by participants themselves. They say ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’, and this approach allows people to explain their situation in a way which can sometimes be hard using words alone. Once all the photos have been taken, the group will meet to share the photos, discuss the meanings behind them and prioritise the most meaningful for a final exhibition. The method was created under the umbrella of participatory action research, which aims to work in partnership with research participants to explore a complex issue and then consider possible actions which can move the problem forward.

This study is linked to the Deep End Research Alliance (DERA) which is a University of Sheffield organisation formed to generate primary care research with and for communities experiencing marginalisation. The DERA has been developing a new approach to research which employs a relevant community member as a Community Research Link Worker (CRLW) who helps the research team to design and review project materials, recruit participants, facilitate focus groups and workshops with relevant language translation if necessary, assist with analysis and help to organise the final exhibition and celebration event.