Research Information for Patients and the Public

How we approve research and make sure it is safe

• The NHS Research Governance Framework sets out the standards by which research is conducted. This includes the monitoring of protocols and procedures to make sure that these are followed.
• Any research we carry out must meet recognised ethical standards and respect the dignity, rights, safety and well-being of the people who take part.
• These standards must be assessed and approved by an independent Research Ethics Committee (REC)

Links to further information on clinical research

• National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)
• Health Research Authority (HRA)
• Medicines & Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)

Patient Information and health and care research

Patient information and health and care research.

Get involved in NHS Research in Cornwall

There are many ways people get involved with NHS research in Cornwall;

1. A healthcare professional may approach you about taking part in a relevant study.
2. We may advertise for people with or without a specific condition, usually on posters in GP surgeries and hospitals.
3. Search by condition on a national database for clinical trial
4. You can also register and choose how you wish to get involved. You could receive our newsletter, hear about local events, share your views on patient documents or work with our research teams on what is best for patients.
   • Any information we collect about you will be confidential.
   • All information will be held securely on Royal Cornwall Hospital computer servers and only be accessible by NHS Patient & Public Engagement Representative staff.
   • It won’t be shared with external organisations.
5. Become a Research Volunteer for the Royal Cornwall Hospital

Research Volunteers

Are you passionate about improving healthcare?

Do you want hands-on experience while contributing to meaningful NHS research?

Our Research and Development (R&D) team at RCHT delivers world leading studies and clinical trials that shape the future of care. We want our service to represent your community; you could help shape and deliver local health and care services.    

By volunteering with us, you’ll help drive life changing research that makes a real impact locally, regionally, and even internationally. 

If you’re excited by the chance to support vital NHS research, we’d love to hear from you. 

Our Research Volunteers play a pivotal role, with opportunities including:

• Charity support
• Event coordination
• Survey delivery
• Interview support
• Administration
• Mobile Research Unit support

These roles are evolving. There will be the opportunity to expand and shape your contribution by identifying the needs of patients and the public utilising the unique skills and interests you bring.   

To find out more, please contact rcht.researchvolunteers@nhs.net or to apply to be a volunteer, please contact Voluntary Services on 01872 253737 or rcht.voluntaryservices@rcht.cornwall.nhs.uk

How can I get involved?

If you are interested in becoming a Research Volunteer or finding out more, then please get in touch with our Research Communications & Engagement Specialist, Amanda Datson.

Deciding whether to take part in clinical research

• We will review the research set of eligibility criteria that participants must meet, we will give you information about the research and time to consider whether you want to take part.
• You’ll receive an information sheet about the research which will contain the contact details of the research study team so that you can speak to them about any part of the study.
• So that you can decide whether to take part, we will make sure you are fully aware of all study procedures and any changes to your standard care or treatment. We will also explain any risks or known potential side effects.
• You do not have to take part and you are free to withdraw at any stage, even after the study has started. Your standard treatment will not be affected if you decide not to take part at any stage.
• For further information and frequently asked questions please visit the NHS website.

Feedback

We are committed to improving the experience for research participants and often conduct participant experience surveys to gain feedback and help us to improve our services.

Working With Us

Current vacancies for the Royal Cornwall Hospitals, Research & Development Department can be found at NHS jobs.

Links to useful information:

• National Institute for Health Research
• National Institute for Health Research – Career Development

Find out what a career in NHS Research at the Royal Cornwall Hospital could offer you in the video below: