Communicating clearly the findings of evidence syntheses to patients and the public can be challenging, yet possible. Increased health research literacy means a better informed public. Improved dissemination of systematic reviews and other evidence syntheses means the public, clinicians and policymakers can make better decisions based on an overall body of evidence.
The Evidence Synthesis Ireland ‘Communication with the Public’ Mentorship Programme aims to build capacity in communicating the results of evidence syntheses by writing for the public, through a facilitated mentorship programme.
Up to three mentees will receive team-based writing mentorships over a 6 months period from Dr Claire O’Connell, Science Journalist and Communicator, Sarah Chapman and Selena Ryan-Vig, Knowledge Brokers with Cochrane UK and Hon Prof Derek Stewart, OBE, Patient Advocate.
Who Should Apply?
This scheme is open to all health and social care professionals, researchers and research officers currently resident on the island of Ireland.
Applicants must have evidence synthesis experience, ideally with a synthesis they have authored and are interested in disseminating to a public audience. The scheme is also open to those who have an understanding of the methodology of evidence synthesis and are interested in communicating the process or importance of systematic reviews and evidence syntheses to the public.
What’s In It For Mentees?
- Receive training to develop communication skills, particularly in relation to communicating research to public audiences and engaging with the media
- Opportunity to publish a blog on Evidently Cochrane
- Mentorship and support for the production of two pieces, one to be a blog (written or spoken e.g. print or online, radio, video, including newspaper articles both broadsheet and tabloid style, press releases etc.)
- The mentors will guide the mentees in finding the most appropriate outlet for submission of their piece
- Guidance on involving the public and patients in your writing/communication process
Deadline for applications is April 11th 2022.
For more information visit https://evidencesynthesisireland.ie/communicationmentorship/