Over the last academic year, the Engage Fund has supported 19 public engagement projects, bringing together researchers, public contributors, partners and communities through a wide range of creative and meaningful activities. Following the completion of these projects, this session will provide an opportunity to reflect on what was achieved, share learning, and celebrate the people and partnerships that made this work possible.

This practical and informal session will be introduced by Lucy Simpson, Public Engagement with Research Manager, before opening up space to hear directly from colleagues who have delivered Engage Fund projects. Together, we will explore what worked well, what was challenging, what project leads have learned, and how public engagement activity might be sustained, developed or built upon. There will also be time to explore each other’s projects, share advice for future applicants, gather feedback to help shape future Engage Fund support, and connect with colleagues interested in public engagement with research.

The session is open to current Engage Fund project leads, project team members, and Manchester Met researchers and doctoral students who may be considering applying to the Engage Fund in future or who are interested in developing public engagement work more broadly.

The session will begin at 11am, followed by an optional lunch and networking from 12.30pm.

Please register via LibCal so we can manage attendance for the session and the optional lunch. As part of registration, you will be asked whether you plan to stay for lunch and whether you have any dietary or access requirements.

Please note that photography and/or filming may take place during the session for reporting, communications and promotional purposes. If you would prefer not to be photographed or filmed, please let us know when you register or speak to a member of the team on the day.

To find out more about the Engage Fund, including aims, eligibility and application information, please visit: ENGAGE Fund | Manchester Metropolitan University