On a bright Saturday in June, members of the PIONEER team joined colleagues from across the University of Birmingham to celebrate a remarkable milestone – 125 years of research, innovation and education.
The University’s Community Festival transformed Chancellors Court and the Green Heart into a vibrant hub of activity, welcoming families, local residents, students and staff for a day packed with entertainment, discovery and hands-on experiences. With more than 50 stalls and activities spread across the campus, visitors were invited to explore everything from interactive demonstrations and public quizzes to wheelchair basketball, film screenings and creative workshops.
Among the many attractions was the Public Involvement Hub, where PIONEER volunteers spent the afternoon helping visitors learn more about how they can contribute to research that makes a difference to people’s lives.
The stall quickly became a popular stop for families and curious festival-goers. Children enthusiastically took on the challenge of “Arrange the Organs”, while others tested their knowledge through quizzes or joined in games of snakes and ladders. There were plenty of resources to browse, opportunities to ask questions and, of course, a well-stocked sweets bowl that proved popular throughout the day.
Beyond the games and activities, the festival created valuable opportunities for conversation. Visitors were often surprised to discover the many ways members of the public can influence and support research. From sharing lived experiences and joining advisory groups to helping shape future studies, people can play an important role in ensuring that research reflects the needs and priorities of the communities it aims to benefit.
For the PIONEER team, these discussions were the highlight of the day. Speaking directly with members of the public provides invaluable insight into what matters most to patients, families and local communities. It also helps raise awareness of how health and care research is carried out and why public voices are so important in shaping it.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of the festival was the relaxed atmosphere. Away from formal meetings and conference rooms, conversations happened naturally between researchers, volunteers and visitors. People stopped to share their own experiences, ask questions and find out more about the work taking place across the University and its partner organisations.
As the afternoon progressed, a brief summer downpour sent volunteers and visitors searching for cover, but the rain did little to interrupt the celebrations. As soon as the showers passed, activities resumed and the festival quickly returned to its lively rhythm.
The event offered a fitting reflection on the University’s 125-year history. While there was much to celebrate in terms of academic achievement and scientific discovery, the festival also highlighted something equally important: the value of working alongside the communities that research ultimately serves.
For PIONEER, this commitment to engagement is central to our work. As the Health Data Research Hub for Acute Care, we believe that meaningful public involvement helps build trust, improves understanding and ensures that research remains focused on delivering benefits for patients and the wider public.
The Community Festival provided a wonderful reminder of what can be achieved when people come together to share ideas, experiences and curiosity. Whether visitors spent the day exploring the many activities on offer, learning about opportunities to get involved in research, or simply enjoying the celebrations with family and friends, the event captured the spirit of collaboration that has helped shape the University of Birmingham over the past 125 years.
PIONEER was delighted to be part of the celebrations and to support the Public Involvement Hub throughout the day. We look forward to continuing these conversations and working with communities across the region to ensure that the future of research remains open, inclusive and relevant to the people it aims to serve.
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