Inspiring the next generation of researchers

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare (HIOWH) NHS Foundation Trust has been named as one of 12 regions to develop and deliver innovative research internship programmes to inspire health and social care professionals to build research careers. 

In partnership with Trusts across the south central region, HIOWH secured £0.9m from the NIHR to host and deliver a Health and Care Professional (HCP) Internship Programme. 

Launchpad Internships aim to empower and encourage professionals from across the healthcare sector in the south central region to pursue research activities through flexible and tailored opportunities that increase research skills and leadership. The programme gives pre-application support and training to those wanting to learn how research might fit into their roles, and ongoing mentoring. This includes those unsuccessful in their application for a full internship. 

The first cohort included people working in hospices, the ambulance service, mental health services and community care settings.

Dr Chantel Ostler, Associate Director of Research and Clinical Academic Physiotherapist, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Health and care professionals might be interested in research, but their jobs are usually so full on they can't fit it in.

"Internships give protected time to explore research, regardless of geographical location or service. This engages less research active professions, for instance those working in hospices. Developing skills in research and innovation is really important for the future of our workforce. But we need more opportunities for health and care professionals in all areas to get involved. This internship programme does just that.”

Our Dorset partners are benefitting from a similarly successful funding application for the south west central, collaborating with University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust. 

Christine McGrath, Managing Director, Wessex Health Partners, said: “Building workforce capacity and capability in research, particularly in under-represented groups, is fundamental to achieving our mission. These successful applications show the value of supra regional collaboration.”