Ian Scragg

I have recently joined the group, and so far, I have taken part in workshops to help design a tool to address missing data in clinical trials; and attended a meeting to review a grant application about surgical site infections.  

I look forward to contributing my skills, knowledge and experience gained throughout my working and personal life to the group as a way of promoting people’s quality of life.
 

I applied to become a member of this group since I thought my experience of working with adults with learning difficulties, helping to provide 24/7 care for my partner’s mother for 6 years (she has dementia), bringing up my young children when my wife died suddenly and unexpectedly of a stroke, and looking after my father with prostate cancer would help me contribute to medical research as a  public involvement  partner.

I am recently retired after working in the university sector for many years and keep myself busy as a British Red Cross volunteer, and as a landlord who maintains houses and gardens.
 

It is difficult to pick out one thing since there are so many good things about being a public involvement partner, but the one thing that stands out is the willingness of group members to listen and consider the views of others before coming to a conclusion.

Gradually, with a large mug of coffee, a warm shower, and checking the calendar (so I know what day it is!).

Going for a walk to a local café.

I am not a huge fan of social media since I prefer to meet people in person, though it is a great way to keep in contact with family and friends.   The last thing I posted was a response to a friend with learning difficulties who sent me a photo of her new doll.