Birmingham St Mary’s has been named one of the UK’s most “research active hospices” at a conference hosted by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR).
The Midlands-based organisation was awarded the title of ‘The hospice which has made a significant move forward in becoming active in contributing to research’ at a conference held in London on Thursday 19 April.
The hospice won the accolade for its progressive work and for ensuring research strategies were firmly embedded across the organisation.
It was particularly commended for leading and taking part in many high-quality clinical studies and for making research and learning a top priority in the hospice’s overall business strategy.
The Birmingham St Mary’s ‘Research Champions’ were also praised, especially as they included both clinical and non-clinical members of staff. Champions regularly attend research steering group meetings, helping to integrate findings into day-to-day practice and publicise activity hospice wide.
The team behind the win were Dr Christina Radcliffe and Research Nurse Ruth Roberts, who are both from Birmingham St Mary’s, as well as Alistair Hewison, Senior Lecturer from the School of Nursing at University of Birmingham. Alistair has been working with the hospice on a number of research projects, which are centred on understanding how an organisation can improve patient care.
Dr Christina Radcliffe, consultant in palliative medicine at Birmingham St Mary’s, said: “Research is absolutely vital in ensuring that the best experience of living is available to everyone leading up to and at the end of life. That’s why, at Birmingham St Mary’s, we are completely committed in growing our research programme – so it’s fantastic to see our hard work recognised with this brilliant award.”
Birmingham St Mary’s was presented the award by Dr Sarah Russell, head of research at Hospice UK, and Baroness Julia Neuberger, whose review on the Liverpool Care Pathway highlighted that more research was crucial in end of life care.
The hospice is a leading provider of end of life care in the West Midlands, caring for 350 people every day across Birmingham and Sandwell. To find out more about its research programmes, visit here.
