The Merrion Centre is set to host a new research-led pop-up from the University of Leeds this April as part of a major study into childhood health and nutrition.
Opening on 8 April, the Growing Well Study hub will occupy a retail unit on the centre’s upper balcony level. The project is led by the University’s School of Food Science and Nutrition and is currently looking for families with children aged between six months and four years to participate.
The research aims to understand how early-life experiences, such as diet and growth patterns, influence long-term wellbeing. Families who sign up will complete an online survey and food diaries before attending the Merrion Centre hub for simple physical measurements. As a thank you for their time, participating families will receive gift vouchers worth up to £50.
The Leeds pop-up is part of a wider national programme also operating in Doncaster and East London. The sessions will be delivered by fieldwork staff from the National Centre for Social Research, with support from local university teams.
A spokesperson for the Growing Well Study at the University of Leeds said:
“We’re really excited to bring the Growing Well Study to the Merrion Centre and welcome families from across Leeds. This research is all about understanding how children grow and develop, and the insights we gain will help shape better health for future generations. By taking part, families can help us build a clearer picture of children’s nutrition and growth while contributing to research that could benefit future generations.”
The team is also planning a family engagement event to introduce the study to the local community.
Lynsey Clarke, Asset Manager at Town Centre Securities PLC, owners of the Merrion Centre, said:
“We’re pleased to welcome the University of Leeds’ Growing Well Study pop-up to the Merrion Centre. As a destination at the heart of the city, it’s important to us that the centre offers a diverse mix of uses that benefit the wider community. This initiative will create a welcoming space for families while supporting important research, and we’re proud to play a small part in helping facilitate that.”
Families interested in taking part can find more information and book their visit at the official study website.
