Getting Started In Research: Moving from Thoughts to Action workshop

Background:

For healthcare professionals working in the NHS it can be challenging to identify the options and opportunities available to increase their research skills and expertise. This workshop provided participants with the opportunity to explore some of the options and, as importantly, utilise a range of exercises to move them from thinking about getting started in research to developing a tangible course of action to make this a reality.

Who was the workshop for?

Health care professionals working in the NHS in the North West with an interest in developing their clinical research skills and expertise. They may have been thinking about doing a formal course of study e.g. a Masters in Research or a PhD or may have been interested in exploring what other options were open to them.

Aims:

This workshop aimed to:

• Increase attendees understanding of the opportunities to develop their research skills and expertise
• Provide an opportunity to develop a clear course of action
• Develop attendees understanding of sources of funding and resources available to support them

Programme:

The day included presentations from a range of speakers including:  Prof. Gunn Grande (course leader for NIHR Masters in Clinical Research, University of Manchester) & Dr Mal Palin (NIHR Trainee co-ordinating centre Leeds). There was also a range of interactive sessions designed to assist attendees in moving forward.

The workshop was offered free of charge and had limited availability so that we could offer a truly bespoke session.

Facilitators:

Dr Lynne Goodacre: As an occupational therapist Lynne has worked in the NHS, Voluntary Sector and academia. She undertook her PhD on a part-time basis with the Department of Sociology Newcastle University. Whilst working in academia she has led a range of postgraduate taught programmes and supervised Masters and PhD students. She led the Releasing Potential Programme within NHS R&D NW which is designed to support NHS based early career researchers.

Dr Will Medd: Will has a PhD in Sociology and is a Certified Professional Co-Active coach. As well as supervising PhD students for nearly 10 years, he has managed several high impact research projects and has over 15 years of experience facilitating workshops for a wider range of organisations.

Outcomes: