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New PPIE Manager keen to transform lives through research

CRN South London’s new Patient and Public Interaction and Engagement (PPIE) Manager wants to transform lives by championing the needs of research participants.

Neha Modha joined the Network, this month, from CRN North Thames, where she worked as a Senior Portfolio Officer.

She is keen to spread the word about the importance of NIHR-supported research. Neha said:

“I’m really excited to have joined CRN South London and I am really looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead of me. The profile of research has been raised because of this pandemic and we must ensure that everyone is given the chance to get involved in studies that can transform lives.

“Research is really important as the results of studies can help to develop better treatments, improve diagnosis and disease prevention, as well as patient care and quality of life for everyone. I want to use the views of our participants to help shape research and to tackle any problems they experience through the NIHR.

“I really enjoy working with patients and the public and I was keen to apply for this role. This is my first time working in PPIE, as my work previously was in the delivery side of research. My previous experience gives me a unique perspective that I can bring to the fore in this function.”

Last year, more than 732,000 people, of all ages, took part in research in England. These people help to change lives and improve healthcare for all.

CRN South London’s Deputy Chief Operating Officer Dawn Beaumont-Jewell, who line manages Neha, said: “I had the pleasure of managing Neha at CRN North Thames and I’m delighted to have the opportunity to work with her again in helping to transform people’s experience of research in south London.

“The pandemic has created a unique opportunity for us to work alongside our hospital partners in tackling some historic issues, and I know that Neha has the drive, passion and commitment to help us succeed in increasing engagement and participation in research, particularly amongst our under-served communities.”

If you’d like to find out more about research or volunteer to take part in a study, please visit the NIHR’s Be Part of Research website.