As representatives of the UKCRC Registered Clinical Trials Units (CTUs) in Wales, situated at Bangor, Swansea, and Cardiff Universities, the results of our research have informed clinical and social care practice within Wales today and on a global scale. We welcome the recent report released by the Cross Party Group (CPG) on Medical Research. This comprehensive document, focusing on the merits of medical research (and so clinical trials), its economic implications, and the imperative of public engagement, aligns with our core objectives.
The report identifies 7 areas requiring attention, and we resonate with its recommendations, reflecting on the report and highlighting our own recommendations in relation to clinical trials in the document here. and included below.
- Streamlining Research Outcomes: Clinical Trials Research will deliver earlier impact with the ability to improve public health and patient outcomes in a cost-effective manner though rapid recruitment of patients and the public, in collaboration with a well-supported incentivised pan-Wales multi-disciplinary team of clinicians and allied health care professionals, alongside NHS and social care Research and Development infrastructure. A strategy to deliver this is welcomed and will be supported by the Welsh CTUs.
- Inclusive Engagement: Public and patient engagement will enhance study delivery, as well as equality diversity and inclusivity and is a key area of methodological development in clinical trials led by the Welsh CTUs.
- Resource Allocation: The host institutions for the Welsh academic CTUs are resourced at a significantly lower level than their English counterparts which impacts their ability to be competitive in attracting research funding at all levels, uncertainties about future funding models further undermine our ability to develop and innovate, as well as contribute to the wide UK agenda on clinical trials.
