As a research-active practice, we are committed to advancing medical science through our participation in the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) and commercial studies. As part of the Yorkshire & Humber Clinical Research Network (CRN), we facilitate access to research opportunities for our diverse populations.
The primary objective of this work is to identify the causes of disease and to develop superior treatments, services, and patient care protocols—ultimately finding better ways to care for patients and maintain public health.
We assure our patients that all research activity is externally funded through the individual studies and the CRN. Consequently, these initiatives place no financial burden on the practice's budget and have no impact on the delivery of our core patient services.
Furthermore, all our clinicians involved in research are trained and certified in Good Clinical Practice (GCP), ensuring full compliance with the rigorous standards governing all NHS research.
Why does our practice take part in research?
Getting involved in clinical research brings direct benefits to our patients and helps us improve the care we provide:
- Access to Innovations: It gives our patients potential access to new treatments and quicker diagnostic methods that are not yet widely available.
- Better for Everyone: Research helps test new approaches across the entire UK population, ensuring they work for people from all backgrounds.
- Sharpening Our Skills: It keeps our clinical team at the forefront of medical science, constantly learning about the latest evidence and best practices to bring back to your care.
Getting Involved in Research: Your Questions Answered
Your Choice, Always
Your decision to take part in any research study is completely voluntary. You can choose not to participate, or you can withdraw at any time after starting, without needing to give a reason. Your decision will never affect the standard of care you receive or your relationship with your doctor or nurse.
How You Can Get Involved
Patients can become involved in research in a few simple ways:
- A doctor, nurse or pharmacist may discuss a suitable study with you directly.
- You might receive information by SMS message or post if a study seems relevant to you.
- You may see a study advertised in our waiting room or on our website and contact us to express interest.
Your Safety and Rights Are Our Priority
Your safety and informed consent are our highest priorities.
- Ethical Approval: Every study is rigorously reviewed and approved by an independent NHS Research Ethics Committee to ensure it is ethical, safe, and scientifically sound.
- Clear Information: You will always be given clear, detailed information about what the study involves before you decide.
- Your Questions Answered: You will have full opportunity to ask questions and discuss the study with our research team.
- Your Privacy Protected: If you agree to take part, you will be asked to sign a consent form. This form will specify exactly which parts of your medical records may be reviewed for the study. Your contact details and full medical records will never be shared without your explicit prior consent.
Find Out More
To learn more about clinical research, you can visit:
- The National Institute for Health Research website for information on research in primary care.
- The official NHS website for patient-focused research information.
We are incredibly grateful to all our patients who have participated in research. Your involvement helps improve future healthcare for everyone. We warmly encourage you to consider taking part in the future.
