Public and patient involvement (PPI) and Civic engagement
Public and patient involvement (PPI) is at the core of our research. The Discipline of Paediatrics collaborates with advocacy organisations, patients, families and members of the public to ensure they are actively involved in all aspects of the research paradigm. This includes planning, design, conduct, and dissemination of research. By incorporating valuable lived experiences and perspectives into our research, PPI ensures that research is relevant, meaningful, and responsive to community needs. Similarly, our civic engagement initiatives encourage individuals and communities to participate in decision-making processes that influence policies, services, and social change.
Research Ambassador
Our Down Syndrome Research Ambassadors, Leinster Rugby’s Culture Captain, Andrew McCarthy and his brothers, Irish International rugby players, Joe and Paddy McCarthy will help raise public awareness of the importance of research in this field. They attended the Children’s Health Research Festival where DISCO and the Down Syndrome Centre collaborated to produce a children’s art exhibition and their ambassadorship was formally launched at the 2025 Future’s So Bright Event in Trinity College Dublin.