The PIONEER Public Advisory Group (PPAG) was set up as part of the HDR UK Medicines Driver Programme, a national research programme focused on improving the safety and effectiveness of medicines used in acute and chronic care settings.
From the outset, it was clear that involving patients and members of the public was not just a requirement but a genuine priority. What started with one grant has grown.
The PPAG now supports all four of PIONEER’s research grants, each tackling a different aspect of medicines and acute care. Together they form a comprehensive programme aimed at improving patient safety, treatment effectiveness, and health outcomes across the UK.
PPAG members are active partners in the research process.
The group helps to:
- Shape research priorities by bringing in patient and public perspectives
- Provide feedback on research design and how studies are carried out
- Work alongside researchers to co-produce patient-facing tools and outputs
- Build trust and transparency between the research team and the wider public
- Review written and visual materials to make sure they are clear and accessible
