Establishing Relationships with Indigenous Communities to Improve Access to Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Care in Saskatchewan Patient Partner

Opportunity details

Position type

Patient Partner

Number of positions available

1

Organization

School of Rehabilitation Science, University of Saskatchewan

Role overview

- Share lived experience with spinal cord injury to help guide research priorities - Attend monthly meetings (online or by phone) to provide insight and advice - Participate in sharing circles with Indigenous communities (virtually or in person) - Help shape respectful, culturally safe conversations between the research team and Indigenous communities and participants - Offer feedback on project plans and communication materials - Support the development of SCI care that better meets the needs of Indigenous Peoples - Be recognized as a core member of the research team, valued for expertise from lived experience

Required knowledge, experience, skills

- Lived experience with a spinal cord injury — either personally or as a caregiver/family member - Comfort sharing personal experiences in a group setting or one-on-one - Willingness to listen and learn from others, including community members and researchers - Respect for Indigenous cultures, values, and traditions - Commitment to equity, inclusion, and collaboration - Ability to participate in monthly meetings (by phone, online, or in person)

Time commitment

- Monthly Team Meetings: ~1 hour per month (online or by phone) - Community Sharing Circles: Up to 3 events total Each may be 2–4 hours, depending on the format Options to attend in person, online, or by phone - Project Duration: Approximately 9 to 12 months, with flexible involvement based on your availability and interest - Additional (Optional) Contributions: Review materials, give feedback, or help shape next steps—only if you choose to be more involved We’ll work around your schedule and preferences, and you can decide how involved you'd like to be.

Location

Virtual - by phone or online; In-person if available

What can you expect from the research team?

As a valued member of our team, you can expect: - Respect for Your Lived Experience Your insights are essential. We will listen, learn, and treat your contributions as expertise. - A Welcoming and Supportive Environment You’ll be part of a team that values kindness, openness, and collaboration. - Clear Communication We’ll use plain language, explain research terms, and make sure you feel informed and comfortable every step of the way. - Flexible Participation You choose how and when you’d like to be involved—online, by phone, or in person. - Cultural Safety We are committed to culturally safe practices and are learning how to work respectfully with Indigenous communities. Our team will include Indigenous partners and Knowledge Keepers who will help guide our work. - Transparency and Ongoing Updates You’ll be kept in the loop about what we’re learning and how your input is helping shape the project.

Supports available to participate

You’ll receive compensation for your time during meetings and sharing circles, plus reimbursement for travel, meals, and hotel if needed for in-person gatherings.

Submission of interest deadline

September 15, 2025