What do participants need to do: Meet with the researcher (online, in person, over the phone - whatever your preference is) to talk about the project and what we plan to do. If the project is funded, you’ll be invited to join team meetings (if you feel comfortable doing so)
How long will it take? Initially, 5-6 hours. If the project is funded, up to 20 hours over 12 months
Will participants get paid? Yes
Is this for research, policy or services? Research
Who can take part? People diagnosed with colorectal (bowel) cancer at least three years ago, and before the age of 50
Deadline: 27 July 2026
Location: Online, in person or over the phone - whatever your preference is and what will be easiest for you.
Researchers would like to speak to people diagnosed with colorectal (bowel) cancer at least three years ago, and before the age of 50 to share their experiences to shape a new project.
More people under the age of 50 are being diagnosed with bowel cancer, which is called early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC). With a diagnosis under 50, people can have additional challenges, such as caring for children, keeping a job, experiencing early menopause, dealing with bladder and bowel problems, managing financial difficulties and worrying about fertility which can affect their relationships and intimacy. However, there is still limited information about these experiences.
Researchers at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board are developing at study that will look at how bowel cancer affects long-term everyday life. The team would like to speak to those with lived experience of bowel cancer to help inform the project.
What experience do I need to help?
You will need to:
• Have been diagnosed with bowel cancer before age 50
• Be at least three years from your diagnosis
What will I be asked to do?
• Review and provide comments on the research plan
• Help design the questionnaires and interview questions for the project – you will be asked to think about what’s most important to you and other patients
• Give advice on how to recruit people to the project
• Help the research team share the project findings and any next steps
How long will I be needed for?
Before funding: around five to six hours to review and comment on the research application.
If the project is funded: up to 20 hours over 12 months.
What are some of the benefits for me?
• Help improve support for younger people living with and beyond bowel cancer
• Make sure research focuses on real-life experiences and needs
• Use your experience to help shape future care and services
• Help develop better information, care and services for future patients
• Gain an understanding into how research is developed
What support is offered?
• Cover reasonable carer or childcare costs
• Offer payment for time of £27.50 per hour (people can request less if they are in receipt of state benefits).
Health and Care Research Wales will cover payment for time prior to project funding. If the project is successful, payment for time will be covered by Cardiff and Vale University Health Board. Have a look at our guidelines for more information about this.
If you are receiving any benefits, you can access confidential advice from the Benefits Advice Service for Involvement.
How do I register my interest?
Fill in the application form here.
Please select ‘Other’ when asked ‘How did you find out about this opportunity?’ and type in ‘All-Wales Cancer Community’.
