User involvement in research

There are many opportunities for NCT members to get involved in our work to ensure that information for parents is reliable, up-to-date, and based on good evidence.

What are research networkers (Rens)?

If you have an interest in maternity research and would like to volunteer some time, please register as an NCT Research Networker (Ren). You do not need a PhD or anything fancy, just a willingness to get involved.

We have the support of academics but the only requirements of being a Ren are that you:

• are an NCT member
• have an interest in research, particularly relating to maternity and parents’ issues
• register as a Ren every two years while you wish to continue volunteering.

What do Rens do?

The work Rens are asked to do depends on their experience and level of research skills. You may be asked to:

• contribute to NCT responses when the charity is consulted by other organisations, including governments, about policy developments throughout the UK,
• write book reviews for publication in New Digest, the CPD journal for NCT specialist workers and maternity services representatives.

 If you are more experienced you may be asked to:

• represent NCT on a research advisory group or a guideline development group.
• write or review new NCT information for parents or professional audiences. 

Rens are free to get involved as little or as much as they can or like. The work is flexible according to individual interests, skills and time availability.

Support and benefits for Rens

To support their role, we offer all registered RENs:

• an annual research networkers’ pack following registration or re-registration;
• an updated Maternity and Parenthood Information Directory;
• copies of New Digest journal, every quarter;
• a library and information service;
• regular Current Awareness Bulletins listing new research studies;
• a weekly Campaigns and Parliamentary Report;
• contact with other Rens including the research egroup.
• Critical Appraisal Skills (CASP) training to help you understand and use research papers, including a telephone journal club.
• Training on health information on the internet and appraising information for parents (DISCERN).

How do I register as a Ren?

NCT members can register by completing a short online registration form on the Extranet. Registering as a Ren is quick and easy. You provide us with information about your work, areas of knowledge and interests.

If you are not a member, you will need to join NCT.

If you require further information or have problems registering please do not hesitate to contact the Research and Information team: email, research@nct.org.uk, tel: 0208 7522327.