A handmade collage created from newspaper clippings, put together during a research session using an arts and crafts approach. The arrangement features layered text and images, suggesting themes related to mental health.

We offer qualitative research delivered by those with direct experience. We can design, deliver and disseminate based on a variety of research techniques on all social issues, placing direct experience at the heart of the process. We work with existing support services such as housing resettlement and drug and alcohol support services, as well as community initiatives such as food provisions to find out what is really happening, what really matters and what changes should be made.


Research Case Studies


A photo of Union Terrace - housing for single homeless men with a local connection to York.

York Housing Resettlement Review

In collaboration with City of York Council, we had the opportunity to talk with over 100 individuals connected to housing resettlement services.
A photo of Bowes Morrel House, Oaktrees - the building where support is accessed in York around alcohol and/or drug use.

York Drugs and Alcohol Strategy

In collaboration with Imogen Blood Consultancy, we listened closely to people’s personal experiences with York’s Drug and Alcohol services.
A photo taken inside a local food bank, showing a row of tables with various food items on the table tops. The room is dimly lit, with the curtains closed. There are no people in the photo.

Food Insecurity in York and North Yorkshire

We formed part of a multi-strand insight project supported by Skyblue Research and Evaluation, North Yorkshire County Council and City of York Council to understand more about food insecurity.
Neutral-toned photo showing two people's hands holding cups of black coffee during a meeting.

Outside Influence

Outside Influence is a community-led research initiative that seeks to strengthen participatory democracy.
A photo of Miles in Budapest wearing an orange hat and blue coat. There is a hot air balloon in the background and historical monument in the background.

Groundswell International Research trip to Budapest (2023)

Miles spent three days visiting hostels, social housing projects, and specialised disability services for people over 50 experiencing homelessness, as part of a collaborative project comparing these services with those in Ireland and Italy.
A picture of a booklet with the words 'Dear Prime Minister... in pink letters on a white background with a post-it note and pen next to it.

Dear Prime Minister letters (2024/2025)

A member of Lived Insights wrote and had published one of 15 letters, in collaboration with the Let's End Poverty 'Dear Prime Minister letters’ campaign.