In the run up to International Clinical Trials Day this Friday 20 May, Walsall Healthcare will be highlighting the opportunities for patients and staff to be part of research.

Its Faculty of Research and Clinical Education (FORCE) was launched at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust on International Clinical Trials Day in May 2020.

And in the months that followed, the COVID-19 pandemic saw the spotlight being shone on research – mainly around the race to develop a vaccine to protect against the virus.

A number of patients across Walsall communities have stepped forward to take part in COVID-19 trials and FORCE wants to maintain this momentum to encourage increase the availability of research and learning to improve public health across the borough.

Research and education are key to providing Best Practice, evidence-based care, and Trusts that actively participate in research demonstrate better clinical outcomes, promote learning as an organisation and build a strong reputation as a place to work and be cared for.

Mr Fahad Hossain, Director of Research and Development at Walsall Healthcare, said: “We want people to be aware of the range of research studies that are currently underway at our Trust and encourage and empower colleagues and patients to get involved with studies themselves

“We want to dispel the myths that may exist around research which are typically that it’s only for academics, studies have to be clinical, staff have to be in senior positions and patients can’t suggest a research study.

“Research projects come in all shapes and sizes and can be applied to all of our working experiences – from our porters to our paediatric consultants.

“One of the fundamental principles of research is asking “Why?” If you are someone who asks this, then research is definitely for you!”

Staff will be highlighting the opportunities that are available for patients and staff to be part of research.

 Come and visit the team’s stand at various Manor Hospital locations and find out more: