IPC launched the Get Experience in Applied Research (GEAR) Programme in 2022, offering training and opportunities for paid, project-based work experience in consultancy and applied research for Oxford Brookes postgraduate students and early career academics from minority ethnic backgrounds.
GEAR emerged from the recognition that staff from minority ethnic backgrounds were underrepresented among our staff and from an ambition to make IPC a more diverse organisation. It also reflects our commitment to the promotion of race equality as part of Oxford Brookes University’s equality, diversity and inclusion strategy.
Since its launch, GEAR has evolved to offer a more intensive programme to a small, select cohort of participants, including:
Some examples of projects GEAR participants from the latest cohort contributed to include:
“Through the GEAR programme, I was linked with Caroline Dowson as my mentor, who became an important influence in my professional development. With her encouragement and support, I got involved in the Attain Leadership Programme for Wales, which was an incredibly valuable and transformative experience for me as an early-career researcher. The programme deepened my understanding of policy, regulation, and inclusive practice within social care, while also strengthening my confidence in leadership and stakeholder engagement. Caroline recognised my potential early on, created opportunities for me to grow professionally, and consistently supported and encouraged me throughout the project. Her supportive and insightful approach helped me develop the confidence to contribute meaningfully, and this experience ultimately led to me joining IPC as an Associate Consultant, which I’m incredibly grateful for.”
“When Aasia joined the GEAR programme, it was excellent timing because IPC was embarking on the Attain programme to support the career progression of those from the global majority in the social care system in Wales.
Coming to the end of her PhD research, Aasia was keen (and confident!) to get involved in the delivery of the programme to promote career progression. Aasia was just the right person to engage with the participants, given her background and gentle approach. I am delighted that she has now joined IPC as an Associate Consultant. I am even more pleased that Aasia is about to undertake some work with IPC, drawing on her nursing and midwifery background, in reducing inequalities in the pre- and post-natal period for particular groups of women – promoting inclusion and take up of community services.”