Engaging communities in health: Principles and practice

About this guide

In Spring 2025, Genomics England commissioned NPC to research community engagement models being used across the UK, and to make recommendations for how community engagement could be strengthened within its work.

This guide brings together insights from people working across the health, research, and voluntary sectors. It reflects international approaches to community engagement practice and contains insights drawn from individuals who generously shared their time and expertise during interviews. This document aims to share learning in a clear and practical manner.

There is no single way to do community engagement well; but there are options to do it effectively in your organisation. A clear purpose, knowing who your community or communities are, and establishing effective two-way dialogue between these communities and the organisation will set the foundations in place. Build on these foundations to create inclusive and reflective practices, whether the focus is on one-off engagement or sustained long-term involvement.

We hope this guide is helpful for both your own planning and reflective practice. Thank you to everyone who contributed.