Skip to main content

JDRF has now rebranded to Breakthrough T1D.
Our name has changed, our mission has not.

Volunteer role

Public and Patient Participation, Involvement, and Engagement (PPIE) Volunteer

You will support our Research Partnerships team with PPIE requests from researchers.
Content last reviewed and updated: 04.02.2025

A researcher looks at a computer screen.

At Breakthrough T1D we believe people with lived experience of type 1 diabetes should be a key aspect of every stage of type 1 diabetes research. Including people who live with type 1 diabetes in research falls under Public and Patient Participation, Involvement, and Engagement (PPIE). Read more about PPIE.

You will be supporting Breakthrough T1D’s Research Partnership team with PPIE requests from researchers in the type 1 diabetes field. 

What will I be doing?

  • Drafting lay summary information for PPIE requests,
  • Uploading opportunities to the take part in type 1 diabetes research studies webpage,
  • Submitting social media request forms,
  • Sending opportunities to the Insight & Experience Panel,
  • Monitoring the current activities to ensure all areas are up to date,
  • Sending out feedback and final report forms,
  • Updating the PPIE planner efficiently,
  • Other support for the team as needed.

How will this benefit Breakthrough T1D?

Your support will help increase the quantity and quality of support we are able to provide. In turn you will benefit individuals living with type 1 diabetes as PPIE ensures research is being completed efficiently and with the needs and views of individuals living with type 1 diabetes in mind. Therefore, this work supports our mission to help make everyday life better for people living with type 1 diabetes as we drive toward a cure. 

How will this benefit me? 

This role provides a unique and sought-after opportunity to work within the charity sector and benefit individuals living with type 1 diabetes. It will give you a chance to: 

  • Develop new, or utilise existing, skills in explaining, simplifying and summarising scientific research opportunities for a lay audience, and project management,
  • Gain valuable insight and experience into PPIE processes in the third sector,
  • Increase knowledge of type 1 diabetes research,
  • Learn how to use webpage and planning tools,
  • Improve skills in collaborating with team members

What skills and experience do I need?

  • Good time management and organisational skills,
  • Clear and timely communication skills,
  • Quick learner,
  • Ability to use Microsoft Office, notably word and excel

When do you need me?

A minimum of 3.5 hours a week, starting as soon as possible. Hours will be discussed at interview.  

Where will I be based?

Remotely, with the option to work in Breakthrough T1D’s head office in central London. 

Please note: for this role, you must be based in the UK, and available to travel to our offices in Central London on occasion. You will also need access to your own laptop.

What training and support will I receive?

When you sign up to become a volunteer, we’ll send you a copy of our Volunteer Handbook and any relevant policies you’ll need to know about.  

You’ll receive training in any role-specific systems, and you’ll have the name and contact details of a staff member who’ll support you in this role and answer any questions you have.  

Please note: for this role you will need access to your own laptop.

We’ll also reimburse all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in line with Breakthrough T1D volunteering policies.

How do I apply?

Please email your CV and cover letter, briefly explaining why you wish to fill this role, to Maddie Bonser (Research and Involvement Officer) on researchcommunications@breakthrought1d.org.uk.