How to get involved in research

We rely on patient and public volunteers to enable research to happen.

We would like to say a huge thank you to everybody who has volunteered in a research study and contributed to improving the lives of other people.  

Clinical research provides the only reliable evidence for safe, effective healthcare. Without health research there would be no new medicines, tests or treatments for health or disease. There would be no advances to medical knowledge or improvements to care. Because of this, you may be asked about taking part in a study when you visit the hospital or another one of our sites. 

If you are interested in research, please ask a member of staff if there are studies available for you. Participation is voluntary, and patients who do not wish to take part will continue to receive the best care we are able to offer.

Alternatively, you can contact the clinical trials team by emailing clinical.trials@wvt.nhs.uk or call 01432 355444 ext 5279 and one of our research team will contact you.

For information about clinical research trials running throughout the country click here to visit the UK Clinical Trials Gateway website, including at Wye Valley NHS Trust.

All research being conducted at Wye Valley NHS Trust has been reviewed by the research department and a research ethics committee to ensure every study is of the very best standard.

If you're asked to take part in a trial, you're free to say yes or no. For people under the age of 18, a parent or guardian has to give permission. The doctor organising your treatment will usually talk to you about being involved and will explain the possible risks and benefits. Alternatively, one our trials team, who are clearly identified by their blue and green uniform and name badges, will talk to you.

If you decide to take part, you'll be asked to sign a form to say you're agreeing to take part in a trial and have understood what it involves.

Not everybody can take part

Sometimes it may not possible for you to be involved. For example, you may need to be at a particular stage of your condition or be at a certain age. There may also be enough people already in the study.

You can also choose to leave a study at any point without giving a reason and without it affecting the care you receive.