University Hospital Dorset NHS Foundation Trust (UHD) has launched a new Dorset Clinical Trials Unit (DCTU) at its Royal Bournemouth Hospital, providing a space for patients to participate in ‘life-changing’ research.
The unit, which was financed through a £500,000 Getting Building Fund awarded by Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), will offer an opportunity for staff at University Hospitals Dorset to develop their research skills, as well as support the development of research across the Dorset health system.
Within the UHD statement, the trust highlights that a ‘significant need’ for investment in improving health and care through research has resulted in the development of the DCTU.
The facility also has a wide remit to investigate numerous health conditions and treatment strategies and will provide patients with a chance to strengthen research evidence in areas of focus for the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR).
Laura Purandare, Head of Research and Development, UHD, said: “We are so excited to be launching the DCTU and seeing the investment made by Dorset LEP come alive.
“With our local population of over 65’s expected to grow by 22% by 2029, this investment in research will help us support people to ‘age well’. The trials unit and research centre provides the environment and infrastructure for us to work closely with fellow health and social care providers in the region which will clearly benefit patients within the county and nationally.”
Professor Anand Pandyan, Executive Dean for Health and Social Sciences, UHD, added: “At BU, our research, education and practice is helping people live better and longer lives. We’re pleased to be able to work with colleagues in the DCTU to further improve Dorset’s excellent health and care provision, particularly by sharing our expertise in clinical study design, healthcare statistics, and public engagement.”
Cecilia Bufton, Chair at Dorset LEP, said: “This new unit provides a much-needed facility for the delivery of research-led, medical innovations, right here in Dorset.”
