Research & Innovation
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about research and innovation, taking part in research, developing research ideas and working with the Research & Innovation team.
How Can We Help?
Whether you are a patient, member of the public, member of staff, researcher or potential partner, you may have questions about how research works at Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. Browse the questions below to find out more.
Patients & the public
Taking Part in Research
Find out more about participating in research and what taking part may involve.
What is health and care research?
Health and care research helps us understand more about health conditions, treatments, services and people's experiences of care. Research can help identify ways to improve care, develop new approaches and provide evidence to support healthcare decisions.
Who can take part in research?
Different studies need different groups of people. Some studies involve people with a particular health condition, while others may involve carers, healthcare professionals or members of the public.
Do I have to take part if I am invited to join a study?
No. Taking part in research is voluntary. If you are invited to participate, you should receive information about the study to help you decide whether you would like to take part. Choosing not to participate will not affect the care you receive.
What happens if I agree to take part?
What happens will depend on the study. Before you agree to participate, the research team should explain what the study involves, how long it will last and what will be expected of you.
You will have an opportunity to ask questions before deciding whether to take part.
Can I change my mind after joining a research study?
Yes. Participation is voluntary and you can usually withdraw from a research study if you no longer wish to take part. The research team can explain what withdrawal means for the particular study.
Research at BCHC
About Our Research
Learn more about how research is supported and delivered across Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.
What types of research does BCHC support?
Research can cover a wide range of areas relating to community healthcare, services, treatments, patient experiences and ways of improving health and care.
Why is research important to the NHS?
Research provides evidence that can help the NHS understand what works, improve services, develop treatments and make informed decisions about health and care.
How are research studies approved?
Research studies must go through the appropriate review and approval processes before they can begin. The exact requirements depend on the type of research being carried out and where it will take place.
Staff & researchers
Developing Research
Information for staff, researchers and collaborators interested in developing or delivering research.
I have a research idea. Who should I speak to?
If you have an idea for a research project, contact the Research & Innovation team. The team can help you consider the next steps and identify the support that may be available.
Can BCHC staff get involved in research?
There are different ways staff may be able to become involved in research, from supporting existing studies to developing research ideas or collaborating with researchers and partner organisations.
I am an external researcher. Can I conduct research at BCHC?
External researchers interested in carrying out research involving BCHC services, staff or patients should contact the Research & Innovation team to discuss their proposed study and the relevant requirements.
Can organisations partner with BCHC on research and innovation?
We welcome opportunities to explore collaboration with universities, NHS organisations, research bodies, community organisations and other partners where there is a shared interest in improving health and care.
