The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) has moved to increase pan-UK research collaboration as it looks to open more avenues in which healthcare researchers can access funding.
The news means that health and social care researchers – and in some cases SMEs within the devolved administrations – will be able to apply for funding via more than double the number of programmes they can currently.
Since 2008, the NIHR has had an agreement with the devolved administrations that has enabled researchers from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to apply for funding through four schemes:
- Health Technology Assessment
- Health and Social Care Delivery Research
- Public Health Research
- Efficacy and Mechanism Evaluation
Health and social care researchers, and in some cases SMEs, from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland will be able to access funding from four further NIHR research programmes from autumn 2023. Find out more: https://t.co/krbaOnsuXD@dfmcauley pic.twitter.com/DstfERaMPZ
— NIHR Research (@NIHRresearch) July 10, 2023
But, following a consultation with the Scottish Government’s Chief Scientist Office, Heath and Care Research Wales, and Northern Ireland’s Health and Social Care Research and Development, a new arrangement has been agreed which, by this autumn, will allow researchers to obtain investment through five more NIHR research programmes:
- Evidence Synthesis
- Invention for Innovation
- Research for Social Care
- Programme Grants for Applied Research programme
- Programme Development Grants
The new practice is expected to promote cross-UK research collaboration and, in turn, expand opportunities for researchers in the three devolved nations.
“We’re making sure the best scientists across the UK are supported with the resources and research funding they need to continue making incredible scientific breakthroughs that save lives and enable the NHS to provide the best possible care,” said health minister Will Quince.
“Increasing access to funding through the NIHR and expanding the opportunities available to researchers right across the country will boost cross-UK research and improve collaboration, opening the door for many more opportunities.”
The NIHR’s scientific director for research programmes, Professor Danny McAuley, added: “This update to our funding processes recognises the fact that the best research happens across borders through collaboration and diversity.”
Image credit: iStock
