A Practical Guide to Collaboration in Participatory Action Research

How can research be more ethical, inclusive and community-driven? Participatory Appraisal Research (PAR) is a powerful approach to community-led research, widely used in the UK for over 25 years. Rooted in action research, PAR empowers communities to take control of research processes—from design to analysis—ensuring that those most affected by social issues shape the solutions. Through interactive visual tools, PAR overcomes barriers such as literacy and numeracy, fostering inclusive engagement.

This book offers a comprehensive guide to PAR, exploring its practical application, ethical dimensions and impact across diverse contexts. Featuring real-world case studies, it is essential reading for researchers, practitioners and policy makers seeking to embed meaningful participation in their work.