Launch of research network tackling health inequalities
A new regional research network designed to bring more clinical trials, innovative treatments and research opportunities to local communities across the Midlands was officially launched today (15 May).
The Central and North West Midlands Commercial Research Delivery Centre (CRDC) is made up of NHS Trust, GP practices, universities and voluntary and community sectors from the region, including our Trust.
The online event showcased how the network will help to make research more accessible for the diverse communities across Birmingham, the Black Country, Solihull, Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent, Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin.
Organisations will support research opportunities and ensure patients from a wide range of backgrounds can access innovative treatments and studies closer to home.
The network can also help bring new treatments and technologies to patients faster, while creating more opportunities for local communities to take part in cutting-edge research.
The region is home to 4.2 million people and is one of the most diverse areas in the country, but many communities continue to experience significant health inequalities and poorer health outcomes. The CRDC aims to address this by promoting the Midlands to commercial sponsors as an ideal location to run research studies and clinical trials.
By attracting more pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device companies to the area, the network hopes to give local people greater access to innovative treatments and medications they may not otherwise be able to receive.
The network is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and hosted by Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust.