Results for the Participant in Research Experience Survey (PRES) show positive feedback for RCHT

The 2023-24 survey for RCHT attracted over 300 responses, with 98% of participants reporting feeling valued for their involvement in our research.

The Participant in Research Experience Survey (PRES) is one of the ways that the National Institute for Health and Care Research Clinical Research Network assesses the quality and effectiveness of research studies. It runs throughout the year and is a chance for those who take part in research studies to tell us about their experience.

In the period from 2023 to 2024, participants taking part in studies at NHS Trusts across the country were asked to give feedback anonymously about different areas of their research journey. Results were very positive, showcasing the brilliant work of our teams.

Across the Southwest Peninsula, the PRES received 1,378 responses. Of these responses, 96% felt the researchers had valued them taking part in research, 94% felt the information they received before taking part prepared them for their experience on the study, 93% would consider taking part in research again and 74% Felt they were kept up to date about the research.

The success of these regional results was reflected locally as well. During the survey, the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust received over 300 responses. Of these responses, 98% felt the researchers had valued them taking part in research, 95% felt the information they received before taking part prepared them for their experience on study, 94% would consider taking part in research again and almost 80% felt they were kept up to date about research.

Regionally, 1,221 (89%) respondents left a comment to the question ‘What was positive about your research experience?’ This was matched by RCHT, with 257 (84% of respondents leaving a comment.

Feedback from the survey included the following examples:

• “Both doctors treated me with care and attention. They both displayed concern and care for my condition (and) treated me with respect.”
• “Lovely nurses – fabulous smiles and they made me feel at ease and very comfortable – really good experience. The trainee nurse is a credit to the hospital- all the staff are.”

Comments received cited the kindness and professionalism of research colleagues both across the Southwest Peninsula and at RCHT. Other positive comments from participants talked about the ease of taking part, and how they felt they were able to help the wider community.

Speaking as Head of Research and Development [R&D] for the Royal Cornwall Hospitals, Bianca Mills said: “We are delighted to share the latest national PRES data for RCHT, which shows that 307 participants surveyed, 98% of these participants reported feeling valued for their involvement in our research. This feedback underscores the importance of our commitment to patient-centred research and the positive impact it has on those who take part.”