As part of Mental Health Awareness Week 2026, the WISDOM Network contributed to a “Stay and Learn” session at St Francis Primary School in Cowley, creating an opportunity for parents to engage with mental health research in a welcoming and accessible setting.

The session was led by WISDOM Network Manager Miriam Carter-Fraser, who introduced parents to the Oxford Centre for Evidence in Mental Health Research (OCEMR), the WISDOM Network, and the Parent Carer Engagement and Research Network. Drawing on recent research findings, the workshop encouraged parents to reflect on how evidence and research relate to the everyday realities of supporting children’s mental health.

Designed as an interactive discussion rather than a formal presentation, the session created space for parents to share experiences, ask questions, and explore both the opportunities and challenges involved in engaging with research. The conversations highlighted the importance of making research relevant and accessible, helping to bridge the gap between academic evidence and family life.

The event demonstrated the value of community-based engagement activities in fostering understanding of mental health research and strengthening connections between researchers and families. It also reflects WISDOM’s ongoing commitment to widening participation and ensuring that research is informed by, and meaningful to, the communities it aims to serve.