Box 2 The DIPLOMA research project

The ‘DIPLOMA’ research project (Diabetes Prevention Long-term Multimethod Assessment) is a commissioned mixed-methods study delivered by a multidisciplinary team, designed to provide a rigorous longer-term assessment of the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme to ensure it is meeting the aim of reducing type 2 diabetes in England in a way that is sustainable and cost-effective [12]. This programme of research was funded by NIHR in 2017 and consisted of eight work packages to evaluate: access and equity of those who enter the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme, implementation of the programme across England, service delivery and fidelity of the programme, patient outcomes within the programme, and long-term cost effectiveness. As part of the PPIE strategy, DIPLOMA researchers were keen to involve public contributors from the outset. We wanted to involve those who were living with diabetes, were at risk of diabetes, or had a family history of diabetes, and could provide valuable insights on how to design, implement and disseminate research findings to members of the public in a way that was accessible and engaging.