Shape the Future of School Meals and help improve Children's Health and Wellbeing

Are you a parent or carer of a primary school-aged child in Wales? As part of a three-year project in collaboration with Public Health Wales, we are inviting you to join DECIPHeras public contributors to help shape vital research aimed at improving Universal Free School Meals (UFSM) for all primary school-aged children. 

DECIPHer will explore how the school meals system is working, identify areas for improvement and ensure that the research reflects real-life experiences. Your involvement could make a lasting difference to children's diets, health and wellbeing across Wales.

What experience do I need to help?

Some experience of involvement in research would be desirable but not essential. 

What will I be asked to do?

Public members will be invited to take part in a range of activities across the life of the project. These may include:

• Attending occasional team meetings (online or in person) to offer your views and help guide the research
• Reviewing and giving feedback on documents, such as information sheets, surveys or reports
• Helping to shape how DECIPHer ask questions to children and families in a clear and respectful way
• Sharing ideas for how DECIPHer can make sure the research is accessible and relevant to a wide range of families
• Supporting how DECIPHer shares findings with schools, families and the wider public 

How long will I be needed for?

Public contributors will be asked to attend up to six sessions per year for the duration of the three-year project, with each session lasting approximately two hours. These sessions will include meetings, feedback opportunities and planning activities.

What are some of the benefits for me?

• Gain valuable experience working with researchers, policy leads and education professionals
• Experience of reviewing study documents to ensure they are clear and accessible
• Support dissemination activities, such as speaking at events or co-authoring publications
• Collaboration with other public contributors
• Build confidence and skills in public speaking and research communication
• Play a key role in making the project relevant, inclusive and grounded in real-life experience

 What support is offered?

Full support and guidance will be provided throughout the project.

You will be offered: 

• Cover for reasonable travel expenses and additional carer or childcare costs
• 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.  

Please complete the form below