Spirit of SPHERU
Voice
Research can give a voice to people, their experiences, and their community needs.
At SPHERU, we are committed to research that reflects the diversity of voices within local communities, specifically the voices of the unheard and vulnerable communities. People have a lot to say, and often they know what is best for themselves and their communities. They just need an opportunity to be heard. Our role as researchers is to turn up the volume so they can be heard.
Reflections, Insights, and Stories of VOICE
How often do you actually get to prove a point?
Sue Delaney, former ED of the Elizabeth Fry Society
Sue reflects on SPHERU’s transformative work providing access to research and data to community based organizations.
Our research helps us stop blaming individuals
Dr. Rachel Engler-Stringer, SPHERU Researcher
Dr. Engler-Stringer reflects on the role of research to help us systematically understand issues, stop blaming individuals, and find collective solutions.
We never forget that every individual’s experience is important
Dr. Bonnie Jeffery, SPHERU Researcher
Dr. Jeffery reflects on the need to better understand people and rural communities, in order to find effective interventions.
How VOICE comes to life in our work
Mozambique Maternal Health Project
This five-year project is a partnership between the Inhambane Provincial Health Directorate and USask (CH&E), which seeks to improve health services for women and addressing barriers that prevent women’s access to care in Mozambique. Learn about the whole team and this project.
A Voice in Policy-Making for Vulnerable Communities
SPHERU uses iterative and innovative knowledge translation strategies to ensure findings make their way to multiple levels of governance, to ensure these communities have a voice in policy-making. One example is SPHERU’s SK Health Equity Project. Learn more about this research here.
Giving Voice to Rural Communities
Government cutbacks in health and social services have led to the decline of primary services in rural communities which, in turn, has forced communities to look to community groups and residents to provide care and services to a population that is aging. SPHERUs work helps to understand the unique needs of rural communities and identify action to support communities. Learn more about SPHERU’s research with rural communities.
Rural Seniors & Aging in Place
SPHERU research has found that rural seniors’ ability to age in place is significantly influenced by access to information and knowledge and awareness of services. A lack of knowledge results in low usage of supports, challenges navigating the healthcare system, and high hospitalization and acute care rates. Learn more about our Healthy Aging in Place research.