Thanks to everyone who responded to our call out for applications to be part of the Independent Advisory Group for the NIHR Policy Research Unit in Reproductive Health in September. Thanks to the efforts of everyone involved in the Policy Research Unit we had 80 applications. From these twenty were successful.
On Monday 16th December 2024, the NIHR Policy Research Unit in Reproductive Health Independent Advisory Group met at an online meeting for the first time.
The Independent Advisory Group will play an essential role in guiding the direction of the NIHR Policy Research Unit in Reproductive Health’s research through open, two-way dialogue between the group and the research team. It is co-chaired by Alison Hadley and Isaac Samuels.
Reproductive health concerns physical, mental and social well-being relating to the reproductive system, including a safe and satisfying sex life and reproductive rights. The NIHR Policy Research Unit in Reproductive Health covers all aspects of the reproductive life course, including menopause, contraception, infertility and urogynaecology. Members of the group bring a range of valuable knowledge, experience and expertise that is reflective of the remit of the policy research unit, with the majority bringing both lived and learnt experience. It is hoped that Advisory Group will form a balanced and powerful partnership that will enrich the research of the policy unit, to drive reductions in reproductive health inequalities and improve care and outcomes.

The meeting began with introductions, allowing group members to familiarise themselves with one another. It was great to discover the variety of locations individuals dialled in from (see map showing the group’s geographical reach!).
Jenny (NIHR Policy Research Unit in Reproductive Health Co-Director) provided an insightful overview of the Unit, its mission and ongoing research projects, setting the stage for Independent Advisory Group’s contributions. Co-Chairs Isaac and Alison then guided the group through discussions on the unit’s core values, the Independent Advisory Group’s role, and ways of working.
Later, Verity, the Unit Manager, outlined the key three key themes the unit is focusing on:
- Menstrual health and menopause
- Contraception, abortion and (in)fertility
- Gynaecology and other pelvic problems), as well as the cross-cutting themes (engaging experts, addressing inequality, improving data, and best models of care).
The group went into virtual breakout rooms to discuss their views from their knowledge and or experience on priority and neglected areas within each of the themes. This sparked dynamic discussions in breakout rooms which they fed back to the main group. Members gave valuable insights into areas needing focused attention which Jenny and the team took away to share back with the wider research team. There was also learning in relation to the running of the group sessions in the future which the team will work on addressing in advance of the next meeting.
This first meeting has set a promising foundation for the Independent Advisory Group’s vital role in steering the policy unit’s impactful research agenda. The group’s next meeting will be in June 2025.
"Reproductive health isn't just essential—it's crucial for making sure everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from, gets the care they deserve. The independent advisory group is made up of people who are truly passionate about making reproductive health the best it can be for all communities. As co-chairs of this group we believe that, having people with lived experience involved is key—it shows just how valuable real-world perspectives are in making sure we’re doing this right." - Isaac Samuels (they/them) and Alison Hadley (she/her) Co-chairs of the Independent Advisory Group
Photo credit: Canva