Aurora Todisco, a member of the public who participated in the DARE UK scientific use cases workshop, shares her experience, highlighting the workshop’s collaborative atmosphere and its impact in improving her understanding of how data can shape society.

At the DARE UK scientific use cases workshop, held this February at The Wellcome Trust in London, we had the pleasure of sitting down with a member of the public who participated in the workshop to discuss their experiences and insights. Their views provided a valuable glimpse into the workshop’s impact and relevance from a public perspective, offering a firsthand account of key reflections and takeaways.

Let’s dive into the conversation!

What is your name and role, and in what capacity did you attend the workshop?

My name is Aurora Todisco, and I serve as the Finance, HR, and Governance Development Lead at Local Voice, a pioneering user-led organisation dedicated to amplifying and supporting resident voices through a recognised evidence-based community insights data system. I participated in the workshop in the capacity of a Public Contributor. My commitment to fostering collaboration and actively engaging in various involvement and co-production initiatives motivated my attendance. Over the years, I have connected with nearly 90 national stakeholders since 2021, emphasising the importance of building meaningful partnerships. This dedication is exemplified in my collaborations with academic, research, and NHS organisations.

How did you come to know about DARE UK and the workshop?

My introduction to DARE UK occurred through my active engagement in health and social care research. As a consultant offering guidance to stakeholders at both local and national levels on the design and implementation of involvement activities, I naturally came across DARE UK. Upon discovering the workshop, I was immediately drawn to participate, recognising its potential to further enrich my understanding and contribute to my ongoing endeavours in this field.

What were your overall reflections from the day?

My overall reflections from the day are overwhelmingly positive. The workshop provided an invaluable opportunity to immerse myself in discussions centred around data, which I found incredibly insightful. I especially appreciated the structured format of the pitch design and the engaging work group discussions, which fostered collaborative learning and idea exchange.

Did you participate actively in the workshop, and do you think your perspectives were heard?

I actively participated in various aspects of the workshop, striving to contribute meaningfully to discussions and activities. From the outset, I made a conscious effort to engage with fellow participants, share my insights, and offer input during group discussions and exercises.

Fortunately, I found that my perspectives were indeed valued and heard by the workshop organisers and fellow attendees alike. This recognition fostered a collaborative atmosphere where diverse viewpoints were not only welcomed but actively sought after. The inclusive environment allowed for constructive dialogue and the exchange of ideas, ultimately enriching the overall experience for everyone involved.

As a member of the public, did you find the workshop helpful and the discussions/presentations understandable?

As a member of the public, I found the workshop to be incredibly helpful in enhancing my understanding of data-related topics. Despite the inherent complexity of the subject matter, I was pleasantly surprised by how the discussions and presentations were presented in a clear and accessible manner. The organisers took great care to ensure that the content was understandable to participants from diverse backgrounds, including those without extensive technical expertise.

The workshop provided valuable insights and practical examples that helped demystify complex concepts surrounding data. Through engaging discussions and well-structured presentations, I was able to grasp key principles and gain a deeper appreciation for the role of data in various contexts.

Overall, the workshop served as an excellent platform for learning and knowledge exchange. It not only broadened my understanding of data but also equipped me with valuable insights that I can apply in my everyday life. I am grateful for the opportunity to have participated and look forward to continuing my exploration of this fascinating subject.

What were some of the scientific use cases identified, and which scientific use case and/or workshop activity did you find most exciting?

Throughout the workshop, numerous scientific use cases were explored, each shedding light on the diverse applications of data. One of the most compelling discussions centred around the impact of data in the health and social care sphere, highlighting its potential to drive transformative change and improve outcomes for individuals and communities.

However, what truly piqued my interest was the scientific use case related to environmental monitoring. The discussion surrounding this topic underscored the crucial role that data plays in understanding and addressing environmental challenges. From tracking pollution levels to monitoring biodiversity, the potential applications of data in environmental science are vast and far-reaching.

The prospect of leveraging data to better understand and mitigate environmental issues resonated with me on a personal level. It exemplified the power of data not only to inform decision-making but also to drive positive change on a global scale. Overall, exploring this scientific use case was both enlightening and inspiring, highlighting the immense potential for data-driven solutions to address some of our most pressing environmental concerns.

How do you see the workshop outcomes benefitting the public?

The workshop outcomes have the potential to benefit the public in numerous ways. From advancing scientific research to fostering innovation, the insights gained from the workshop can lead to tangible improvements in various aspects of society, ultimately enhancing the lives of individuals.

Learn more about the DARE UK scientific use cases workshop