Clinical research is a way of finding out more about health, illness, treatments and care. It can include many different types of studies.

Some studies look at new medicines or treatment combinations. Others collect information about symptoms, quality of life, blood test results or how a condition changes over time. Some studies may involve medical devices, scans, questionnaires, samples or follow-up appointments.

All research studies are carefully reviewed before they begin and must follow strict ethical and regulatory standards to protect patient safety.

Why take part?

People choose to take part in research for different reasons. Taking part may give you the opportunity to:

•           Access new or developing treatments, where appropriate
•           Receive closer monitoring as part of a study
•           Help improve understanding of your condition
•           Contribute to better treatments and care for future patients
•           Support advances in healthcare

Taking part in research is always voluntary. Your care will not be affected if you decide not to take part. 

How research opportunities are identified

You may be invited to take part in a study if your consultant or clinical team thinks there may be a suitable research opportunity for you. In some cases, a member of the research team may speak to you directly about a study.

For some studies, you may also be able to self-refer through information leaflets, posters or contact details provided in clinic areas.

Before you decide whether to take part, the research team will explain the study, what it involves, any possible risks or benefits, and what your choices are. You will have time to ask questions and consider whether the study is right for you.

What happens if I take part?

Every study is different, but you will always be given clear information before making a decision.

Depending on the study, taking part may involve:

•           Attending research appointments
•           Having blood tests, scans or other clinical assessments
•           Completing questionnaires
•           Providing samples, such as blood, tissue or saliva
•           Taking a study medicine or using a medical device
•           Being followed up by the research team over time

You will only take part if you are eligible for the study and you choose to give informed consent.

Your safety and rights

Your safety is our priority. All studies are reviewed and approved before they open, and our teams follow strict research governance, ethical and regulatory requirements.

As a research participant, you have the right to:

•           Ask questions at any time
•           Take time to decide whether to join a study
•           Say no without it affecting your care
•           Withdraw from a study at any point
•           Be treated with dignity, respect and confidentiality
•           Receive clear information about what the study involves

Our staff will support you throughout your research journey and make sure you understand what is happening at each stage.

Our commitment to patients

We are committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centred research. We want every patient and participant to feel informed, respected and supported.

Our research teams work closely with hospital consultants, nurses, clinical specialists, academic partners and industry sponsors to bring forward research that can improve treatment options, patient experience and future standards of care.