Red4Research: NELFT turns red to celebrate research

On Friday 19 June 2026, colleagues across NELFT came together to support #Red4Research, a national campaign celebrating the vital role research plays in improving healthcare.

Staff across the organisation proudly wore red to show their support, including the Research & Development (R&D) team. The day highlighted the real difference research makes, not just in theory, but in every day life for patients, families and communities.

Research at NELFT

Research takes place every day across NELFT. The R&D team works closely with colleagues across mental health, children’s, community and dementia services.  

The work relies on the support of clinicians and staff in these services.  Their involvement allows studies to take place in our local services, giving people in our communities the chance to take part in research.  These studies are helping to shape the future of both mental and physical healthcare, not only at NELFT, but across the world. 

#Red4Research was an opportunity to recognise the impact of this work and the important role everyone plays.   

A year of strong results

Reflecting on the past year, Director of R&D Dr Russell Razzaque shared his pride in what has been achieved across NELFT by wearing red and posting his thoughts to LinkedIn.  He thanked colleagues for their dedication and recognised several key successes:  

Over the last 12 months:

• 1,177 people have taken part in more than 50 research studies.
• 19 new studies have opened.
• Over 450 people attended the annual R&D conference.
• NELFT sponsored and supported 5 major studies, including ODDESSI, RADAR follow-up, HARP, NOLA and CFT, and more will open soon.

A shared national moment 

Dr Hélène Brown, NELFT Chief Medical Officer also supported the day wearing red, and shared poetically on LinkedIn ‘So proud of what our teams have already done! So excited about what’s to come!!’   

As well as wearing red, the R&D team shared their thoughts on working in research on social media, alongside colleagues across the UK.  It was also fantastic to see the BT Tower in London lit up red in support of the campaign.  

Why research matters

Research helps us understand what works and what does not. It allows us to improve care, find new treatments and make services better for patients.

By using evidence from research, the NHS can continue to improve and make sure care meets the needs of the people it serves. Every study adds to our knowledge and brings us closer to better health outcomes.

Looking ahead

Red4Research is a celebration, but it is also a reminder. Every study, every participant and every member of staff helps improve care, both now and for future generations.  

At NELFT, the commitment to research continues all year round.  By working together, we are helping to build a stronger future for healthcare guided by evidence and focused on improving lives.