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How can research be more ethical, inclusive, and community-driven? Participatory Action Research (PAR) is a powerful approach to community-led research, widely used in the UK for over 25 years. Rooted in action research, PAR empowers communities to take control of research processes – from design to analysis – ensuring that those most affected by social issues shape the solutions. Through interactive visual tools, PAR overcomes barriers such as literacy and numeracy, fostering inclusive engagement.
This book offers a comprehensive guide to PAR, exploring its practical application, ethical dimensions, and impact across diverse contexts. Featuring real-world case studies, it is essential reading for researchers, practitioners, and policy makers seeking to embed meaningful participation in their work.
'An excellent guide to PAR, including key thinkers and concepts, applications to different contexts and scales, as well as practical tips. I particularly enjoyed reading the reflections by commissioners and community researchers.' Tina Haux, Social Research Association
'A practical, inspiring guide for anyone wanting to create research collaborations between members of the public and researchers. I found the frameworks and tools clear, adaptable, and immediately usable, making PAR feel both accessible and genuinely empowering in real-world projects.' Fran Harkness, Kohlrabi Research
Rowena Hay is Co-Founder of Mighty Mini Research Collective and Director at Shortwork.
Susie Hay is Founder at Shortwork.
Roger Newton is Director at 3Ps.
1. Introduction
2. Participatory Action Research: where we've been and where we're going
3. The process
4. The tools
5. Reflections on ethics and power
6. Conclusion