Write to Rise: A REDiC retreat for transformative fellowship and grant writing report
9 – 11 February 2026, Nailcote Hall Hotel, Warwickshire
We were excited to be able to offer twenty, early and mid-career researchers, from under-represented backgrounds, a unique opportunity to spend three days focussed on developing their impactful writing skills. The retreat blended expert workshops and writing time with mentoring and peer support along with insights from NIHR panel members and previous successful applicants.
“The retreat was highly valuable in creating protected, structured time to think strategically about my NIHR application. In particular, the emphasis on understanding panel expectations shifted my focus from simply refining content to strengthening positioning and impact. The balance between independent work and expert insight was especially beneficial.”
Day one introduced participants to the support available through the NIHR Research Support Service and importance of research inclusion. This was complimented by insights from NIHR panel members in an interactive discussion session into what makes a strong application.
On day two, we were delighted to welcome Esther Selsdon, Consultant Fellow from the Royal Literary Fund who delivered a fantastic series of thoughtful workshops on impactful and expressive writing, followed by tips on getting started and writing in plain English.
Day three focussed on challenges, problem solving and success strategies. The faculty were joined by Prof G.J. Melendez-Torres, Associate Dean (Researcher Inclusion) NIHR Academy who facilitated a discussion around these topics and delegates were able to ask questions to successful applicants in another interactive panel session.
“The retreat has encouraged me to approach writing more strategically. I will focus earlier on funder expectations and assessment criteria, seek timely mentor feedback, and shape the proposal around impact and feasibility before extensive drafting. This ensures effort is aligned with competitiveness rather than just productivity.”
Each of the retreat participants was allocated one of the faculty present to be their mentor for the duration of the retreat, along with opportunity for pre and post retreat support. There was plenty of opportunity throughout the three days for participants to make the most of this support with hands-on supervision time.
“I had a very positive experience at the retreat and I can confidently say that it has enhanced my chances of securing funding in the future. Having events directed at researchers from under-represented backgrounds is so essential … It was wonderful being surrounded by so many people who are going through similar experiences and to see faculty from ethnic minority backgrounds who have made it in the system!”
One of the aims of the retreat was to create a community between attendees that would grow post retreat and to help facilitate this, peer reflection sessions where delegates could share progress and critique their work together were included in the programme.
“I feel I gained a lot of exposure in terms of networking. This retreat allowed me to meet and hear from different researchers at different levels and encouraged me to continue my own career.”
The event was hugely successful with both participants and faculty expressing their delight at having been involved.
“Thank you for the opportunity to attend, it was an extremely valuable experience especially in terms of career trajectory and development. It was a VERY supportive experience!!”
“This was an amazing opportunity, and I am beyond grateful to have been a part of it. I know this will play a part in my journey as a researcher, and this is so beneficial to minority groups in research. I hope this continues for many others.”
“Connecting with other researchers from ethnic minority backgrounds who are going through similar experiences: the sense of community and the want to help each other were very apparent throughout the retreat.”
