77% of GP practices in the West of England took part in research
More people than ever took part in research right on their doorstep last year, according to new data released today.
The data relates to the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Clinical Research Network (CRN) portfolio studies. It shows that of the 213 GP practices in the West of England, 163 took part in research supported by the NIHR CRN in 2023-24. This is a 38% increase compared to the previous year.
This enabled 21,672 participants in the region to be recruited via primary care, including GP practices. This is 37% of the total number of participants recruited to research in the region in 2023-24.
This means more people than ever had the opportunity to take part in research and access new treatments and healthcare practices right on their doorstep.
Dr Kyla Thomas, Clinical Director at the CRN West of England, said:
“It’s fantastic to see so many people taking part in research through primary care. Here at the CRN, we have a shared vision of research being an integral part of health and care for all. An important part of this is increasing accessibility and ensuring that participants are provided with research opportunities regardless of their location.
“Through our Participant in Research Experience Survey, we often hear that participants would prefer not to have to travel for research appointments. With more GP practices delivering research, it’s easier for people to take part in research at a location that is convenient for them.”
Dr Matt Hoghton, CRN West of England Local Specialty Research Lead for Primary Care and GP Partner at Clevedon Medical Centre, said:
“Our patients have been incredibly helpful and generous with their time, contributing to research that has the potential to benefit many patients now and in the future.
“Being embedded in our communities allows us to understand and address the unique health needs of our population more effectively. We know research in general practice is pivotal for driving improvements and innovations in the care provided to patients and their carers. We are fortunate that so many practices in the West of England have been able to offer research opportunities for their patients, alongside providing day-to-day access to essential healthcare services.
“This collaborative effort between healthcare providers and patients is a testament to the strong community spirit and commitment to improving health outcomes for all. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the patients who have participated in these research initiatives. Your contributions are invaluable and will undoubtedly lead to better health outcomes and innovations in patient care.”
Participation figures continue to exceed pre-pandemic levels
Over the last year, a total of 1,045,282 people across England took part in health and care research. This is the fourth year in a row that around a million people have been involved in research supported by the NIHR CRN.
In the West of England, 59,237 participants took part in CRN-supported research. They got involved in research for a number of conditions including cardiovascular disease, cancer and dementia.
The CRN has helped recruit more than 5.4 million participants during the past 5 years.
Executive Director of the NIHR Research Delivery Network (RDN), John Sitzia, said:
“Our annual data shows health and care research is becoming more embedded in communities. This enables people from a variety of backgrounds to get involved and ensures everyone can access new treatments and healthcare practices through participation in research.
“Whether it’s taking part in a drug trial at a local hospital or completing an online survey, every contribution helps improve health and wellbeing in the UK and beyond. So we want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has taken part in a health and care study last year. I hope that everyone who participated feels a sense of pride for their contribution.”
Everyone can take part in research, whether they have a health condition or not. Be Part of Research Service helps people to easily find and take part in studies across the UK.
Find a study or register to take part in research in the West of England at on the Be Part of Research website.
