Our Commitment to Diversity

Our Commitment to Diversity

Why diversity in research matters

At TwinsUK, we aim to understand how genetics, lifestyle and environment affect health. To do this effectively, it’s important that our research reflects the diversity of the UK population. 

Historically, health research has been based largely on White British populations. This means that findings may not always fully represent how different conditions affect people from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds. 

Improving diversity in research helps ensure that: 

  • Health findings are relevant to everyone 
  • Future treatments and interventions are more inclusive 
  • Different communities are better represented in healthcare research 

Current representation in TwinsUK

While TwinsUK includes over 17,000 twins across the UK, we know that some groups are currently underrepresented. 

At present: 

  • Around 82% of participants are women 
  • Only a small proportion of participants come from ethnic minority backgrounds 

We are working to improve this by encouraging more twins from diverse backgrounds to take part in research. 

Why your participation matters

If you are a twin from an ethnic minority background, your involvement can make a real difference. 

By taking part, you can help: 

  • Ensure research reflects the experiences of your community 
  • Improve understanding of health conditions that may affect different groups in different ways 
  • Contribute to research that benefits future generations 

You will also be contributing to research that aims to improve health outcomes both in the UK and globally. 

What taking part involves

Taking part in TwinsUK is flexible and designed to fit around your schedule. You can choose which studies you would like to take part in and how involved you would like to be. 

As a participant, you may be invited to: 

  • Complete questionnaires about your health and lifestyle 
  • Take part in research studies or clinical visits 
  • Provide biological samples (such as blood or stool) 

We aim to make participation as accessible and convenient as possible. 

Your data and privacy

We understand that trust is important. TwinsUK takes data protection and confidentiality seriously. 

  • Your data is stored securely and handled in line with strict regulations 
  • Personal information is protected and only used for approved research purposes 
  • You can choose to withdraw at any time 

We are committed to being transparent about how your data is used. 

Get involved

By joining TwinsUK, you can take part in research that helps shape a healthier future for everyone. 

Join the TwinsUK community today 
Help ensure research reflects the diversity of the UK 

Join TwinsUK 

Interested in doing more?

We are also working with twins from diverse backgrounds through our Community Ambassador programme. This initiative brings together a small group of twins who are interested in helping us improve how we engage with different communities and ensure research is more inclusive. 

As a Community Ambassador, you may have the opportunity to: 

  • Share your experiences of being a twin and taking part in TwinsUK, helping others better understand what research participation involves 
  • Help shape how we communicate by giving feedback on our messaging, materials and campaigns, ensuring they are clear, relevant and culturally appropriate 
  • Support outreach to wider communities by helping us connect with people who may not have previously considered taking part in research 

Ambassador activities are flexible and can include contributing short quotes or stories, taking part in interviews, or supporting community engagement activities. 

By getting involved, you can play a key role in helping TwinsUK reach more diverse communities and ensure that future research reflects the experiences of everyone. 

If you are interested in becoming a Community Ambassador, please email aaruthy.1.suthahar@kcl.ac.uk or laura.bello-rodriguez@kcl.ac.uk to find out more. 

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