Involving people with dementia and their carers in research

Alzheimer's Society is a pioneer in public involvement in dementia research. Our Quality Research in Dementia (QRD) network is a team of 180 carers, former carers and people with dementia. Network members play an integral role in the research programme. Their duties include:

• setting our research priorities

• prioritising and commenting on grant applications

• sitting on grant selection panels

• monitoring on-going projects funded by Alzheimer's Society

• telling others about the results of research.

We believe that people with dementia and their carers make a unique and valuable contribution to our work. Their knowledge and passion ensures our research funding is allocated to projects that address the real needs and concerns of people with dementia and their carers.

Become a member of the QRD Network

If you are a carer, a former carer or a person with dementia and you are interested in joining the Network, please download our QRD network application form.

All members of the network are issued with a manual and offered training to give them the skills they need to take part. No prior scientific knowledge is required - it is your personal experience that is important to us.

All activities and opportunities are optional. The role of a Network member can be undertaken from home. We realise that circumstances change, and that it can be difficult to commit when the future is uncertain.

For more information on the network please email us at research@alzheimers.org.uk

Read about one QRD Network member's experience