ABSTRACT
This chapter explores three key issues commonly met when approaching peer and participatory research. To begin with is 'Peerness: the "who" of participation', unpicking the role of peer researcher and recognizing the complexity of peer research for the people involved. Second is 'Involvement in decision-making: how and how much?', highlighting some techniques and strategies for opening the space and getting out of the way to enable participation. Third, 'Working with commissioners: how it helps and gets in the way' considers working within limitations and the benefits of partnering with experts. The chapter focuses on almost nine years of carrying out research with the charity Groundswell UK, with particular reference to a project called the Escape Plan. Taking a participatory approach requires us to become sensitive to where the power is and where and when it flips or subtly drifts from one person to another throughout the research process.
