This article is based on a workshop facilitated by the authors at the Palliative Care Congress, Glasgow 2008. The paper has three components. Firstly, setting the scene by describing a range of methods of involving people affected by cancer in research. Secondly, presenting data from a study of the experiences of people with cancer at the end of life that involved people with cancer at various stages of the research. Finally, describing the discussion from workshop participants on how we can involve patients with life-limiting conditions more in our practice and research.