More than 84,000 people in the West of England contribute to improving health and care
To mark International Clinical Trials Day (ICTD), the Clinical Research Network West of England (CRN WE) has announced that an incredible 84,477 participants across the West of England volunteered to take part in health and care research studies in 2022/23. Participants in the region were recruited into a total of 643 studies.
Ifan Jones, Chief Operating Officer for the CRN WE, said:
“This year our NHS has its 75th birthday. As part of our Shape the future campaign, we’re celebrating how health and care research contributes to the NHS, saving lives and money - and how research can shape the NHS of the future. For health and care research to help all of us, it’s important for everyone to get involved, so it’s great to see so many people taking part in research in the West of England.
“By volunteering in research, participants help people live healthier and better lives, now and in the future. A huge thank you to every participant, without you the vital research that we do would not be possible.
“On behalf of the CRN WE, I would also like to extend our thanks to all the research teams in the region for their incredible hard work supporting participants through their research journey.”
Anyone can get involved in health research. Be one step closer to changing future treatments and care by registering your interest to take part in a wide range of health and social care studies. Create your free health research account on the Be Part of Research website to be matched to suitable research studies and sent information on how to take part.
ICTD commemorates the first randomised clinical trial by Scottish physician James Lind. On 20 May 1747 he ran a study to ascertain what treatment - including citrus fruit - would best cure scurvy in sailors, which was a leading cause of death for sailors at the time.
Sites across the West of England have been celebrating by hosting events and raising awareness of research:
- Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust held information stands and the Research Team featured on the Trust podcast alongside a family who are taking part in a research study.
- University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust held two information events, including a trial of sweets and games.
- Royal United Hospitals Bath also held a Research Network Showcase with some amazing cakes.
- North Bristol NHS Trust have been sharing information on their social media channels, including reasons why people take part in research.
