Good practice in research

Research saves lives and is vital to improving patient care and the health of the population. All health professionals can play a role in supporting research. This might involve:

• raising patients’ awareness of opportunities to take part 
• recruiting people for clinical trials and other studies
• designing, organising, and carrying out research projects 
• encouraging research activity and the use of research evidence.

This guidance sets out the professional standards expected of you, whatever role you may play in supporting research. It will help you to make sure you work in line with the law and the UK research governance arrangements, as set out in the UK Policy Framework for Health and Social Care Research (the Policy Framework), where it applies to your work.  

This guidance came into effect on 18 December 2024.