A Narrative Review of Inclusive Research Practices

Inclusive research recognises the right of people with intellectual disability to collaborate, lead and direct research projects rather than participate only as subjects. Researchers have a responsibility to make the process of research accessible and open to researchers with disability. This narrative review is a response to Walmsley et al.'s article that discusses the value of inclusive research. The review aimed to provide an update on the progression of inclusive research and ascertain current practices and strategies for inclusive research whilst identifying and analysing gaps in knowledge. Thematic analysis of papers identified four areas underpinning inclusive research: (1) highlighting the voices of people with intellectual disability in research; (2) ensuring accessible research; (3) encouraging collaborative research; and (4) committing to reflexive improvement. However, the literature also indicated that there is no standard practice when it comes to inclusive research. This highlights the need for a uniform curriculum for inclusive research training that ensures the active participation of people with intellectual disability within research projects.