A new initiative designed to make an impact on patients through research has been launched by the University of Plymouth and University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust (UHPNT).The new Research College will provide readier access for clinicians and healthcare practitioners across both organisations to obtain support to develop their research ideas which will ultimately make a difference to patients.
The College launched at an event on Monday 8 April, welcoming representatives from across the University, Trust and partners, as well as keynote speaker Jonathan Sheffield, Chief Executive of the National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Clinical Research Network (CRN).
Jonathan discussed the importance of research in the NHS, highlighting what the future holds for the NIHR, and the need for research in ensuring high-quality patient care.
Recognising the critical need for research and the barriers faced by busy practitioners, the idea to establish the Research College came from both the Trust and the University, whose partnership working aims to positively impact the health and wellbeing of the local community.
Professor Judith Petts, CBE, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive at the University of Plymouth, said:
“The Research College is designed to help staff whether they are new or experienced researchers. This is important as research-informed practice plays an increasingly critical role in delivering the best care possible and will be underpinned by the College and the close working relationship between the Trust and the University.”
Ann James, Chief Executive of University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, said:
“Those who work with patients day in day out are often best placed to know what issues affect the people in their care. The Research College is designed to help staff whether or not they already incorporate research into their everyday work. It could be through support with understanding what is already known, with project design or bid writing, or it could be that they are already running a project and need support to promote it to patient groups. Closer collaboration between the Trust and University has great potential to benefit the people of Plymouth and beyond.”
