Inclusive Leadership for Public Engagement

The Inclusive Leadership for Public Engagement Programme aims to support environmental researchers in becoming inclusive leaders by developing their knowledge and expertise in diversity, equality and inclusion as well as enhancing their research and leadership skills. It was developed in partnership with the University of Bath's Public Engagement Unit and Dominic Galliano.

The programme is for researchers based at any research institution or higher education institution working in NERC research fields who are seeking to develop their leadership skills in public engagement with research.

It is a 12-week action-led course where participants bring a 'live project' or 'goal' that they will work on with the facilitators, mentors, and their peers throughout the programme. There are three main teaching blocks, plus an introductory workshop and a wrap-up workshop at the end of the programme. Each block involves a two-hour participatory workshop, a one-hour session with a mentor, and some self-directed time.

Key highlights of the programme include:

• Inclusivity in Public Engagement practice - explore diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the context of public engagement with research. Develop strategies and practical methods to embed DEI in your practice.
• Inclusive influence and leadership - develop your communication, collaboration, and decision-making skills to drive impactful research and public engagement initiatives.
• Creating an inclusive research culture - learn the art of leading diverse teams and fostering an inclusive work environment.

By the end of the programme, researchers will have developed their knowledge in diversity, equity and inclusion in research and public engagement as well as leadership skills. They will do this by having developed an understanding of the range of public engagement practices available, the institutional resources available for them to draw on, how to influence upwards, and how to encourage others to undertake public engagement.

What previous participants have said

"The breadth and depth of learning was incredible given the relativelylow time commitment".

"(I gained a) bolder and more confident approach to my science publicengagement and my role as an advocate for inclusive practises in allaspects of the research cycle".

"I am taking away theories, clearer understanding and pathways in howI can implement inclusive engagement within communities but alsowithin an academic structure. It has given me the power to continue thepush within a supportive network and framework".

"The main thing is that I'm no longer scared of 'getting it wrong', butaccept that it's a lifelong learning process to work in this space. It's helpedme realise the power of critical thinking, planning, and doing withpurpose and an open approach".

Our evaluation report will be posted here shortly.