The VBI programme is focused on an area of primary care that could affect a large proportion of the population. With that in mind, it’s important that the programme is designed and carried out in a way that best suits the general public. The best way to achieve this is to have members of the general public on the research team, in the form of a lay advisory panel.

As a member of the lay advisory panel, you can contribute to the design and implementation of the programme in a variety of ways, reviewing documents, tailoring patient information leaflets, attending meetings and communicating findings. Advisors provide the public and patient perspective, ensuring the research meets the needs of these groups.

If you are interested in becoming a member of the lay advisory panel and want to find out more information please contact the study.

For more information about getting involved in research, a helpful leaflet entitled ‘Health Research and You’ can be found here:http://www.arec.org.uk/health/