University Hospitals Plymouth featured by BBC as Trust named top clinical research recruiter in England
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust (UHP) hosted a visit from the BBC, who visited last week to report on the Trust’s national research success and to highlight how expanding clinical research in the South West is transforming patient care.
As part of their coverage, BBC Spotlight interviewed two research participants, Lucy and John, who shared their personal experiences of taking part in clinical studies and why contributing to research is important to them. They offered insight into how research can access to new treatments and improve quality of life. It was especially moving to hear both Lucy and John describe how they hope their involvement in clinical trials will make a difference for others in the future.
Clinicians Dr Stephen Mullin and Professor Daniel Martin also feature, explaining that growing research capacity in the South West benefits local communities and how delivering trials outside of London gives patients earlier access to world‑first innovations and improves quality of life across the region.
We are grateful to Lucy and John, for generously sharing their experiences and to Abigail Patrick and all the staff on Lind Ward, for providing space and support for interviews.
The Combined Labs teams also helped accommodate filming, showcasing some of the behind-the-scenes laboratory work going on which the public very rarely sees.
The success of the visit was due to the generosity of patients, staff and various teams, giving time out of their working day to help celebrate the achievements of research at UHP.
Michael Visick, Research and Development Clinical Director, said: “Our success is driven by collaboration, with teams across all departments working together to make research accessible to thousands of patients.”
There are now more than 200 active studies underway across a wide range of clinical areas, from neonatal research to world‑first, in‑human trials for complex diseases. This sustained investment in research and development has positioned UHP as a national leader in clinical trials. Crucially, it benefits patients by providing earlier access to innovative and emerging treatments closer to home. It also strengthens the Trust’s growing reputation as a destination for leading clinicians and academic partners, helping to attract skilled staff and new research opportunities to the region.
Visit the Be Part of Research website to learn more about research, search for opportunities and sign up to be contacted about studies that interest you.
