Public and patients
Clinical research helps us better understand human health and wellbeing so we can:
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improve current treatments, medicines and care, and develop new and better ones
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diagnose diseases and conditions earlier or more accurately
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prevent people from developing diseases and conditions
Clinical research trials and studies are part of everyday work in the NHS and, you might not know it, but most care that patients receive in hospitals and GP practices is the result of research.
This includes experimental medicine trials, which look at the causes of disease, how treatments work and whether they are safe, and trials to test the effectiveness of new treatments to see if they are better than what is currently available.
Take a look at our FAQs on this page to find out more about clinical research in Southampton, including what it involves and how you can take part.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact us on 023 8120 4989 or email CRFstudyteam@uhs.nhs.uk.
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How would I be involved?Opportunities to help shape our research are varied and will depend on your interests. Activities include: completing surveys or voting in online polls (this can be done remotely/at home) attend group meetings and share your ideas and opinions, or help write and comment on information sheets for participants work directly with our researchers and advise them on how to talk or write about their research findings in a way that is easy to understand
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How much time will it take?We understand people have different amounts of free time they’re able to give to PPI so we are very flexible in terms of how often you get involved. We will invite you to contribute to projects that match your interests – some may be one-off activities that could take an hour whilst others will require more commitment, such as attending group meetings every couple of months. However, you can decide which opportunities fit your schedule.
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What’s in it for me?There are many reasons why people choose to get involved with our PPI activities. You may want to share your health experiences, or give back to the NHS to help improve the lives of others. Or, you may want to develop your own skills or are just passionate about healthcare issues. People who are considering a career in healthcare find interacting with researchers and staff particularly useful.
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How are young people involved?We have a PPI group for young people aged 8-18 and another for young adults aged 16-24. We meet regularly with both groups to get their ideas and opinions on research projects directly aimed at young people.
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Will I get paid?We are grateful for the time and effort our PPI members give and are able to reimburse costs of taking part in our PPI activities – for example, travel and carer or childcare costs.
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How do I find out more?The PPI team can provide more information, including how to become a PPI member, and answer any questions you have. You can contact the team by calling 023 8120 4989 or emailing PublicInvolvement@uhs.nhs.uk You can also join our mailing list (if you’re aged 16 years and over) to receive updates on our PPI activities and opportunities to get involved. If your child is interested in joining one of the PPI groups for young people, contact us to find out more.