For patients and the public

Getting involved in our work

If you have an interest in primary care research and think you might like to join us here at PRIMER, we would love to talk to you.

Who can join PRIMER?

PRIMER membership is open to any member of the public who is not trained, registered or currently working as a healthcare professional or as an academic researcher. If you do want to learn more about research then we can provide training, but you don’t need any expertise in research to get involved.

Our group comprises patients, carers and other members of the public who have experience of using healthcare services in Greater Manchester.

“Through PRIMER I have been able to make a real difference to people’s lives and to their health and wellbeing, including my own.” Carole Bennett / PRIMER Member

How PRIMER meetings work

Every year we aim to hold six PRIMER meetings, which are coordinated by the PRIMER Chair and Vice-Chair. Our terms of reference (Word doc) outline what is expected of members and explain the format of meetings, membership and our ground rules for working in public engagement.

Membership options

There are two PRIMER membership options.

1. A ‘core’ member regularly attends PRIMER meetings in person.
2. A ‘corresponding’ member participates in discussions by email rather than face-to-face.

Our person specification and role description (Word doc) should help you decide whether joining PRIMER is for you.

Joining PRIMER

Please get in touch with the PRIMER Coordinator to see if there are any vacancies in the Group.

Email: peter.bower@manchester.ac.uk 

You will then be asked to download and complete the PRIMER application form (Word doc). This helps us to find out more about your background interests and any previous experience of research you may have. There will then be an informal meeting, either face-to-face or by telephone, to talk to you about getting involved and answer any questions you may have.