Young volunteers become peer researchers for the Team v programme

We asked Rebecca Lee and Sarah Neat, from research consultancy, CFE, to talk us through how they put young participants at the heart of their Team v programme evaluation with the Centre for Social Action at De Montfort University.

Read on to find out more about the evaluation and how it's helping us shape our future work....

What’s the aim of the evaluation?

To explore the impact of the programme and inform its future development. Through desk research and consultation with vInspired’s partners, staff, Team v leaders and volunteers, we’re developing an understanding of the programme and young people’s ability to bring about social change

Who’s involved?

A small group of peer researchers were recruited to actively support all aspects of the evaluation. Team v leaders were approached through an open call whilst they were on the programme. Everyone has the chance to take part in as many activities as they want to. The only thing that they need to be is a willing young person! There are a number of activities that peer researchers are currently supporting, including the design of research instruments and facilitating community discussions in their local area.

Why is peer research important to Team v?

A peer research group is vital to ensure that the evaluation of the programme is led by the views of those engaged in it. This not only strengthens the validity of the research but crucially ensures that the Team v programme is actively supporting the development of young people.

Team v is all about giving young people the chance to lead, develop new skills and cultivate unique perspectives on the world. The evaluation needs to reflect this.

This is called a participatory approach to research and it recognises that we are all experts in our own lives and value all opinions. In this context, it is paramount that peer researchers are actively engaged in all aspects of the evaluation and not just deployed in one off activities that do not support their personal progression.

What do the peer researchers get from the experience?

It was important for the evaluation team that the peer researchers get something from the experience for themselves, so where possible, we’re finding ways to pass on our research skills. Doing research with people and communities is an interesting experience that teaches you about facilitation, questioning and how to find out whether your ideas have had a real impact on people.

In the spirit of involving young people in our work, you can hear all about what it was like to be a peer researcher, from one of the Team v leaders, Charlee.