Help shape future glaucoma research

The Centre for Vision Services Research want to hear from people with real experience of living with glaucoma. Your views will help the team design better research that focuses on what matters.

Researchers are planning a new research project to understand why glaucoma gets worse in some people. Before applying for funding, the team want to hear from people with real-life experience of glaucoma. The team wants to ensure their project truly reflects the needs of people living with glaucoma. Hearing real-life experiences helps shape a more relevant and impactful funding proposal.

What experience do I need to help?

You don’t need any special experience or training to take part.
If you have glaucoma or care for someone who does, your personal experiences are what matter most.

You need to:

• Be willing to share your thoughts
• Be able to join a meeting (by video or phone)
• Live in Wales or get glaucoma treatment in Wales

What will I be asked to do?

• Attend one online group meeting (for one and a half hours) with the research team.
• Share your experiences of living with glaucoma (or supporting/caring for someone with glaucoma).
• Discuss your perceptions of glaucoma treatments and how glaucoma affects daily life.
• Answer questions from the researchers to help them understand what matters most to people with glaucoma.
• Listen to and respect others’ opinions during the discussion.
• Optionally, consider becoming a co-applicant on the research grant application if you are interested in a longer-term role.

How long will I be needed for?

• One online meeting lasting one and a half hours.
• The meeting will be arranged at a time convenient for the group.
• No preparation is required before the session.

After the meeting, there may be an optional opportunity for one to two people to stay involved as co-applicants on the funding application, but that is entirely up to you.

What are some of the benefits for me?

• Make a difference – help shape how the research is designed so it reflects real experiences of glaucoma.
• Influence future care – your input could improve how glaucoma is diagnosed and managed, especially for people at higher risk of progression.
• Be valued – researchers want to listen to your views and experiences.
• No experience needed – just a willingness to share your views and listen to others.
• Accessible involvement – the meeting will be online, with phone dial-in available and support if needed.

 What support is offered?

• Cover reasonable travel expenses and additional carer or childcare costs,
• Offer payment for time of £25.00 per hour (people can request less if they are in receipt of state benefits).

Have a look at our guidelines for more information about this. 

If you are receiving any benefits, you can access confidential advice from the Benefits Advice Service for Involvement.  

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