Service user participation in research and consent for contact

What is Consent for Contact for research?

Volunteers who take part in research play a crucial role in improving the lives of thousands of people every year. Nearly all research needs help from those affected to make this possible. Through research we can develop better treatments and you can help us to achieve this.

This is your opportunity to express interest in hearing about research you could get involved in.

If you are happy to be contacted about research, you may be asked about this by your care team or the Trust research team at any point throughout your care. Alternatively, you can contact us using the details below.

What type of research could I be involved in?

There are different types of research you may be invited to take part in, they may be looking into understanding of conditions and therapies to improve people’s health. All research you are invited to take part in has been approved and is safe to run in the NHS.

Taking part may involve talking about your own condition and personal experiences. Participation may include face to face meetings with a researcher or via phone or video call.

In some studies, there may be incentives offered for taking part such as vouchers, or cash to thank you for your time. We will always let you know details of what is involved before you decide if you would like to take part. You will also be given plenty of time to think about it and ask any questions.

What happens if I agree to being contacted about research?

By agreeing to contact you are not agreeing to take part in specific research, just to hear about what opportunities are available to you. If you agree to be contacted, then can we record this permission on your medical record. You will receive a copy of this information leaflet to keep

Before contacting you about any research opportunities, we may check your medical records to determine your eligibility to participate. We will then approach you to let you know about opportunities you may like to take part in. You may be contacted via email, phone, or letter however our research team will try where possible to use your preferred method of contact if you have one recorded in your medical record.

It’s possible that the team may not contact you for a while. This may be because there are not any current studies suitable to share with you so please don’t worry if you haven’t heard from us straight away.

What happens if I don’t agree or want to change your mind?

It is entirely up to you whether you want to be contacted; you can change your mind at any time without giving a reason and this will not affect your care. We will make a note on your medical records so that we avoid contacting you in the future. If you decide you would like to be contacted again about research, you can let us know via hpft.research@nhs.net or calling on 07467339308.

What happens when I am discharged?

At discharge your care team may ask if you would like to continue to be contacted. If not asked, your original decision will remain.

Will my personal details be kept confidential?

All Trust staff comply with the Data Protection Act (2018) to make sure your confidentiality is protected at all times. Your information is not shared outside of the organisation without your consent.

If you’re interested in finding out more, you can contact us by emailing us on hpft.research@nhs.net or calling on 07467339308