One of the key aims of Health Determinants Research Collaborations (HDRCs) is to build research culture and capacity within Local Authorities. But, equally as important, is the ability to stay open to change. To test new ideas, and to learn from what doesn’t go quite as planned. Seeing failure not as a brick wall, but as a stepping stone.
The power of test and learn
In HDRC Cornwall, we are encouraged to take a ‘test and learn’ approach. Trying things out, reflecting on what did (or didn’t) work, and adapting as we go. It’s not always about getting right in the first instance – it's about being open to learning and improving. To create cultural change, we need to embody it too.
A good example of this was our attempt to introduce Open Hour. This was a virtual drop-in space inspired by informal chats that used to happen more naturally in office settings. The idea was to create a relaxed, low-pressure environment for people in the council to connect with HDRC Cornwall. A space ask questions and share ideas.
When things don’t go to plan
Despite our best intentions, Open Hour didn’t quite land. Attendance was low. We realised that in a remote working world, people often prefer to go directly to someone they know rather than join a general Teams call. While it didn’t meet its original goal, it wasn’t a wasted effort. We reflected on our experience and asked each other: Why didn’t this work? How could it work differently? And is this something we let go of for now?
We concluded together that the idea of Open Hour needed more structure – people need a clearer purpose to be drawn in. So, we paused it, keeping the concept in our back pocket in case the right opportunity for Open Hour arises.
A new opportunity: greenspaces and natural environment
Earlier this year, NIHR posted a new funding opportunity called ‘Greenspaces and Natural Environment'. It came with the research question - what are the health impacts of the interventions which change access to green and blue space?
Interest in this topic area has already been growing – across the council, partners, and wider conversations with friends and colleagues - about the role and importance of greenspaces in supporting our mental, physical and social wellbeing.
We decided to bring back Open Hour, but now with a clear focus. Our aim was to introduce the funding call and invite interested parties to the exploratory conversation.
The response was really positive. We had a strong turnout from across the council and external organisations like RSPB and SWCPA. The session sparked some great discussions and people brought interesting ideas to the table. We are now mapping out ideas and drawing out key themes from the discussion – not just for this call, but for future opportunities too.
What’s next?
This experience reminded us that not every idea will work the first time around – but that doesn’t mean it's not worth trying. Sometimes, it's all about timing, context and being open and ready to adapt.
Do you have a project idea which aligns with the greenspaces and natural environment funding call? Does your organisation work with or around greenspaces and health? If so, we’d love to hear from you! Email us at hdrc@cornwall.gov.uk