Calls for consumer involvement in research

Background

The RECOVER Injury Research Centre is based at The University of Queensland and has a strong focus on improving recovery and rehabilitation after motor vehicle injuries. Our research focuses on: 

• improving health outcomes after musculoskeletal injuries, particularly Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD); and 
• developing more effective and efficient health services supported by technology innovation (e.g., telehealth, virtual reality, AI, apps, etc.).

RECOVER is a joint initiative of the Queensland Motor Accident Insurance Commission (MAIC) and The University of Queensland. RECOVER sits within the UQ Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences and is located at The Surgical, Treatment and Rehabilitation Service (STARS), within the Herston Health Precinct.

About the Consumer Advisory Group

RECOVER Injury Research Centre is committed to genuine consumer and community involvement in all stages of our research. The Consumer Advisory Group (CAG) ensures consumers and community members are meaningfully involved in RECOVER’s research. Members contribute lived experience, community perspectives, and advice to guide research priorities, methods, and communication.

Members of the advisory group could include:

• People affected by injury, particularly those injured in a road traffic crash
• The families/caregivers of people affected by injury
• The general community & community groups that represent consumers

Who we’re looking for

We welcome applications from:

• People affected by injury, especially from road traffic crashes
• Families or caregivers of injured people
• Members of the general community with an interest in recovery and rehabilitation
• Community groups that represent consumers 

Ideal candidates will:

• Be aged 18+ 
• Have relevant lived experience
• Be able to reflect the needs and interests of the consumer group they represent
• Be able to articulate the potential issues that consumers confront when participating or engaging in research
• Be able to collaborate constructively with fellow committee members
• Be able to participate in a minimum of three online meetings a year
• Have a basic understanding of the research process (desirable)

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive Consumer Advisory Group and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people living in rural, regional, and remote communities.

Role and responsibilities

Members of the Consumer Advisory Group will provide perspective and advice on a range of activities, including:

• Research priorities, design and implementation of projects and dissemination of results
• Project documents, including consent forms, information sheets, and study resources
• Community engagement and communication, including website and social media content

Governance

• The group includes 8 –10 consumers and 1–2 RECOVER researchers
• Meets 3 – 4 times a year, online for 1 – 2 hours

Support and reimbursement

• RECOVER reimburses consumers at Health Consumer Queensland’s recommended rate of $100/hour for CAG meetings. 
• RECOVER staff will provide an orientation program for CAG members.

How to apply

Please complete the online expression of interest form. 

Register your interest

Download a PDF version of the questions to practice. 

Questions

Please contact:
Helen Gray
Knowledge Translation & Engagement Manager
RECOVER Injury Research Centre
Email: helen.gray@uq.edu.au