The Conundrum of Training and Capacity Building for People with Learning Disabilities Doing Research.

Background: This study explores the training involved when people with learning disabilities take their place in the community as researchers. This was a theme in a recent UK seminar series where a network of researchers explored pushing the boundaries of participatory research.

Method: Academics, researchers with learning disabilities, supporters and other inclusive researchers considered important themes arising from presentations about developments in participatory research.

An exploration of the self-advocacy support role through collaborative research: 'there should never be a them and us'.

Background: The role of the support worker in self-advocacy groups for people with intellectual disability is pivotal in setting the scene for empowerment. However, despite the growing importance of the role, it has attracted very little scrutiny.

Method: The study developed an inclusive team approach working alongside researchers labelled with learning difficulties.

Partnership working between university researchers and self-advocacy organizations: 'A way forward for inclusion?'in England and 'Fine feathers make a fine bird'in Flanders.

This article gives accounts of differing experiences of self-advocate partnerships in research with universities in England and Flanders. In England the partnership grew up within a local People First group built upon a personal working relationship with one support person. It is focused almost exclusively on empirical research and, because it is aimed at influencing policy and practice, questions of funding and control are to the fore.