The Integrated Research & Development Centre (IRDC) and the Community Led Research Pilot

The Integrated Research & Development Centre (IRDC) was one of six community organisations who participated in the Community Led Research Pilot. They work to address health and environmental challenges in underrepresented communities, including Nepalese communities, in Reading. 

The Community Led Research Pilot was a programme of six projects which were co-created between community groups across Reading and Slough, with the British Science Association, the University of Reading, and funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).  

As part of the pilot, IRDC worked with Prof Hong Yang and Dr Deepti Angra and the project aimed to improve gardening practices through Nepalese customs, composting management, and food waste recycling. By growing seasonal vegetables and flowers, the project sought to educate communities about the importance of nutrition, promote physical exercise, recycle garden waste to improve the environment and people's health and reduce social isolation. The project aims to engage with minority communities, low-income groups, senior citizens and those with disabilities by promoting healthy living, environmental sustainability, mental health and belonging through inclusive gardening.  

Core research theme: Responding to healthy living challenges through improved gardening and waste management among underrepresented communities (particularly Nepalese communities) in Reading.  

Community Leaders: Baburam Banstola, Integrated Research and Development Centre  

Community Researcher: Krishna Neupane   

University of Reading researchers: Prof Hong Yang (Geography and Environmental Science) and Dr Deepti Angra (Crop Science, Agriculture Policy and Development)  

As part of the concluded pilot, the IRDC co-produced a series of tools and resources, including research findings, case studies, and videos with the Cobra Collective 

IRDC Case Study 

IRDC end-of-project video 

If you would like to know more about the Community Led Research Pilot, get in touch at [email protected]