More patients are being given the opportunity to take part in research to improve emergency care and treatment in the NHS.
In 2024-25, 1,249 people were involved in studies in trauma and emergency care at Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust and another 299 took part in critical care research. These figures place the trust as 3rd best in England for trauma and emergency care NIHR portfolio research, and 9th best for critical care.
The figures are a major increase on previous years and reflect the ongoing work delivered through the new CENtre for Emergency Care and Trauma (CENECT), based within the Greater Manchester Major Trauma Hospital. CENECT brings together academic expertise and existing research infrastructure, to develop acute care research portfolios and support ‘home-grown’ studies led by NCA investigators, which target evidence gaps and identify best practice.
The centre also supports colleagues from the multidisciplinary team to develop research experience, training and engagement, a key strategy towards embedding research in direct clinical care.
Participants were recruited to acute care studies at Salford Royal, Fairfield General and the Royal Oldham Hospital. The clinical and research teams at each site continue to collaborate closely to maximise opportunities for patients across NCA.