Introduction Public engagement throughout the research lifecycle can help improve research quality and ensure it reaches audiences effectively. Where the perspective of the ‘general population’, rather than service users or community groups, is sought, there are no clear means of engaging those with no particular interest in the topic. Natsal, large-scale probability-sample surveys of sexual behaviour in Britain, seeks to develop a general population engagement panel to address this. Here we report on the lessons learned to date.

Methods We undertook qualitative interviews with 20 participants aged 16-59 from the Natsal-4 pilot survey to explore: interest in research engagement; types of activities of interest; motivations for participating; communications approaches. We then trialled engagement with pilot participants who had agreed to recontact (n=93/131) on a real research decision: Selecting a sample for Natsal-4 using administrative records vs current address-based sampling.

Results There was general interest in further engagement with research, particularly around interpreting results and designing future studies. Participants preferred flexibility regarding which activities they participated in. Financial incentives were viewed as important, but other motivating factors were also raised. Communications should clearly state what is required including whether specific skills are needed. In our trial engagement project, 15/93 participants responded with their views on changing Natsal-4’s sampling methodology (each were emailed a £10 gift voucher).

Discussion Natsal-4 participants’ feedback helped inform methodological decision-making, suggesting a participant panel can provide a valuable lay perspective on research. This may be useful to other projects seeking to work with those not engaged with services or community groups.