Practitioner reflection Growing our knowledge, improving our practice - reflecting on how doing participatory action research over a period of time shifts the way you understand and do the work

This article describes and reflects on the experience of the Reconnect East Arnhem early intervention service in using participatory action research (PAR). Written by a manager the article explores the contribution PAR has made to the development of relationships and services at the local level. The process of engaging with the community in exploring the question “What would it take to better support young people using alcohol and other drugs?” is outlined and reflected on. The experience of this service is that participatory action research builds a shared common interest and understanding which that is highly valuable for human services in their work with communities