Kent Youth Research Network

We received funding from the National Institute of Health and Care Research to create a Kent Youth Research Network (KYRN). The goal is to connect children, young people, and their families in research that impacts them. This way, their views will help shape future policies and services.

There are 4 components of the network:

• young researchers
• research participants
• practitioner network
• researchers.

Young researchers

Are you 11 to 17-years-old and interested in health and social care topics? Join our young researchers' group.

You'll get training from the University of Kent, where you'll be able to:

• carry out your own research
• gain experience and guidance
• improve your personal development.

In 2024, our young researchers went on a residential trip. Watch a video diary from them to hear what they thought of the trip. Or download an evaluation report (PDF, 584.8 KB).

Our young researchers have made more videos too. Discover from them:

• their experiences of being a young researcher
• why it's important to be involved in research.

Sign up to become a young researcher

Our research poster

Our poster was shown at the Applied Research Collaboration Kent, Surrey and Sussex Research Week Symposium. It received a 'highly commended' rating and the judges said:

"It is a great poster, visually interesting and impactful, lively and busy, highlighting various areas of progress. A project that's giving voice and power to young researchers, training them and celebrating the achievements of lots of mini projects within the overall mission."

View the Kent Youth Research Network poster.

Research participants

We're always looking for ways for you to share your views. Opportunities to take part will be available soon. Keep an eye on this webpage.

Practitioner network

This network is a group of organisations who work with:

• young people
• families
• caregivers.

It's a great chance for them to work with you to develop their youth voice activities. By doing so, they can take part in future research or focus groups.

If you’re interested, we have some funding available, but it’s limited. You can use the funding for:

• extra staff
• venue costs
• rewards for involvement.

Opportunities to take part in this research will be coming soon. Register your interest to get the latest updates.

Complete our practitioner network registration form

Researchers

Being involved in KYRN is a great opportunity to learn from young people. Whether you're:

• a researcher
• an organisation
• a research student.

Planning a research project with young people? Do you know where to start or what to include? Our helpful young people have put together a great video to help you. Watch their video to plan your next research project.

If you need youth participants for your project, let us know.

Complete our support request form

Parish council mapping

We asked parish councils about:

• what projects they support for 0 to 19-year-olds and their parents
• how they support their community with the cost of living crisis
• intergenerational projects in their parish.

Read our parish council report 2024 (PDF, 478.5 KB)

For any questions about KYRN email us at Youthresearch@kent.gov.uk .