Colleagues across NELFT are marking #Red4Research, a national campaign celebrating the contribution that research makes to improving health and care.

Research is at the heart of delivering better outcomes for patients and communities. By working with people who use our services, carers, academic partners and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), NELFT is helping to develop the evidence that shapes the future of mental and physical healthcare.

Over the last year, NELFT's Research and Development team has continued to build on its reputation as a leading centre for healthcare research.

During 2025/26, the Trust:

• Recruited 1,177 participants to more than 50 open NIHR portfolio studies
• Opened 19 new NIHR portfolio studies
• Welcomed more than 450 attendees to its annual Research and Development conference
• Sponsored five major studies – ODDESSI, RADAR follow-up, HARP, NOLA and CFT – each with the potential to transform the way care is delivered across the UK

These achievements reflect the dedication of staff and the invaluable contribution of patients and members of the public who choose to take part in research.

Research helps improve treatments, develop new approaches to care and ensure that healthcare services are informed by the best available evidence. Every study contributes to a better understanding of what works, helping to improve outcomes for people today and in the future.

Commenting on Red4Research Day, Dr Russell Razzaque, consultant psychiatrist 

"Research is fundamental to improving the care we provide. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supports research at NELFT, from our staff and partners to the patients and members of the public who take part in studies. Their contribution helps us develop the evidence that will shape healthcare for future generations."

People interested in learning more about research opportunities at NELFT, including how to take part in studies, can visit the Trust's Research and Development webpages.