Video: Be Part of Research
Learn more about taking part in research on Be Part of Research.
Why take part in research?
Every time someone receives treatment for a health condition, it's because of the many people who take part in health and care research.
Research is key to developing new treatments, finding better ways to manage health conditions and providing better care. Or preventing people from developing conditions in the first place.
Without research, there would be no Covid vaccines, or no new treatments for cancer. But it's the people who take part in health research who make these vital discoveries possible.
By taking part, you can help give people healthier lives - now, and in the future. It's easy to get involved - simply register with Be Part of Research.
How does Be Part of Research work?
We’ve made taking part in studies easy. Our free “research match-making” service can help you find and take part in the right research for you:
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Create your account
Simply register your details and choose the health conditions you're interested in.
You can also sign up to Be Part of Research using your NHS login.
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Get matched to studies
We'll email you details of fully-approved studies that match your interests and health conditions, taking place online or at locations near you.
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Take part if you choose to
The decision on whether to take part is always yours. Before enrolling in a study you'll also discuss the opportunity with the research team. They will check that the study is right for you and answer any questions you may have.
Who can take part in health and care research?
Whether you have a health condition or not, you can help find new and better ways to treat diseases, and improve care by taking part in research.
We can help you find and take part in important studies into most health conditions, as well as research which aims to improve social care.
Many studies need both people with or without health conditions. So even if you don't have a diagnosis, you can still sign up to Be Part of Research and make a difference.
To get started with Be Part of Research, you need to be aged 18 or over and live in the UK.
Meet our volunteers
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Fred
Fred's experience of taking part in health research through his local GP practice had a life-changing impact on him. His throat cancer was discovered early before it could spread thanks to a new test developed by researchers.
“It was possibly the luckiest day of my life. It’s given me so far 5 years - and I hope another 50,” said the 78-year-old grandad from Devon.
Watch Fred’s video -
Bea
Bea, 38 from Reading, was matched to the MyMelanoma study via Be Part of Research. After being treated for skin cancer, the new mum wanted to give back by taking part in research.
As part of the study, she completed two questionnaires and gave researchers access to her NHS data, so they can learn more about the cancer and its treatments.
Read Bea’s story -
Nicholas
Nicholas, from Wembley in London, took part in the Post-Hospitalisation COVID-19 (PHOSP COVID) study. The private ambulance driver spent 4 weeks in hospital in 2021.
The study involves giving blood and completing breathing exercises. It tracks patients who have been hospitalised with Covid-19 to explore the long-lasting impact of the virus on health outcomes in the UK.
Read Nicholas’ story -
Alka
Alka, from Buckinghamshire, took part in the LOLLIPOP 100K study. The study is looking at why people of South Asian heritage are more likely to develop conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
The study involved completing questionnaires, providing samples, and undergoing tests such as blood pressure. Participants receive a report about the results providing insight into their personal health.
Read Alka’s story -
Elaine
Elaine, 61 from Bradford, took part in a trial called TIDE. The study is testing a new drug for the treatment of severe asthma.
As part of the study she received injections of the drug and was asked to keep a diary of her peak flow tests - measurements of how quickly she can blow air out of her lungs.
Watch Elaine’s video
What is Be Part of Research?
Be Part of Research is a UK-wide service that helps people understand what research is and what it might mean to take part. It also shows what research is currently happening across the UK.
You can create a free account or search for trials and studies into health conditions you’re interested in, at locations near you.
Be Part of Research is run by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), in collaboration with the NHS and devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The mission of the NIHR is to improve the health and wealth of the nation through research.
Be Part of Research is funded by the UK government, through the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC).
Information about taking part
Safety of taking part
All of the studies on Be Part of Research are highly regulated and controlled to protect participants. You’ll be told everything that the researchers know about possible risks and side effects, so you can make an informed choice about whether to take part.
Find out more about what to expect when taking part in a study.
It’s more convenient than you think
Research takes place in lots of places including NHS hospitals, GP clinics, or sometimes in your own home. There’s also many different types of study that take up different amounts of time. Decide what works best for you and then find studies that fit your schedule.
Taking part is voluntary
Most studies on Be Part of Research are unpaid and rely on the participation of volunteers from right across the UK. You may be reimbursed your travel expenses so it's worth talking to the study team about what reimbursements are available. By taking part in research, you’ll be helping to advance care and treatments now - and for future generations.
