My thanks to the Diabetes Research Network (DRN) for sending me their report ‘Improving public awareness of clinical research.’  Clinical research networks are at the ‘front-line’ in terms of encouraging people to take part in research and this report gives a good insight into some of the tools and strategies used by DRN.  Others trying to do the same thing might find the report helpful in enabling them to shortcut a few steps.  There’s also an honest appraisal of  the hurdles they have had to overcome and those that remain in the way.

Similarly, the National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) Consumer Liaison Group have today posted a new report on their website called ‘Action on Access.’ This is also stuffed with case studies and learning that will be useful to many.  But there are also very good conclusions directed at commissioners, Trust Chief Executives, research funders and others.  While I think about it the group have also posted a report on the impact of public and patient involvement  and it’s here if you wish to take a look.

On the same theme, AMRC are holding a ‘Research in the NHS’ event on 10th December.  Places can be booked here.  I believe I am speaking but don’t let that put you off.

Fellow blogger Jo Brodie referred me to this posting by another blogger Ann Blandford looking at how the focus on ‘do no harm’ in research regulation, disincentivises researchers such that the system ends up doing no good either.  Or that’s how I read it anyway.  Ann talks about the need for ‘proportionate’ regulation which is the hot topic of the day.  Only this afternoon I was discussing with colleagues how public engagement strategies for recruiting patients to research can often fall foul of the different interpretations and then stipulations put on them by research ethics committees.  That’s surely one for the new HRA feasibility study as announced this week.

Less than two weeks to go until the INVOLVE annual conference and the conference issue of the Newsletter is now out.  Please take a look.  The INVOLVE blog will be going live soon as well.  We have 450 delegates attending and a real buzz is gathering about the whole event.