Collaborators

The trust is collaborating with a number of academic and NHS organisations to develop and deliver exciting research projects that involve local patients and members of the public.

University of Kent at Canterbury

The trust is working with the University of Kent on a number of exciting research projects:

• EPOP Study – this study looks at the impact gentle isometric exercise on recovery post abdominal surgery for cancers. Surgeons at the hospital are working with physiotherapists and sport science experts within academia to find out more about the impact of exercise. The trust is also collaborating with the East Kent Hospitals NHS Trust, University of Greenwich, University of Middlesex and City University London on the EPOP study.

University of Surrey

• Memorable moments – the trust is working with staff from the University of Surrey to investigate how to help ITU patients make better life decisions post admission.
• Research Design Service (RDS) – The Research Design Service at the University of Kent provides researchers with expert support on all aspects of trial design and set up. The service provides advice on appropriate methodologies, how to apply for research funding, and advice on ethics and research delivery. Researchers can approach the RDS directly for support or access their services through the Trust Research and Development Department.
• Independent statistician – The trust employs the services of a statistician to help researchers with their study design. This service is accessed via the Trust Research and Development Department only.

National Institute for Health Research Kent Surrey and Sussex Clinical Research Network (KSS)

The Kent Surrey and Sussex Clinical Research Network (KSSCRN) provides support to research active NHS organisations to deliver research projects and provide trials to as many patients as possible. The network provides funding and support to trusts to open National Portfolio trials across all specialties.

Academic Health Science Network

The Academic Health Science Networks align the health care providers with innovation, training and education, informatics and clinical research. Their purpose is to improve patient and population health outcomes by translating research into practice and supporting the development of integrated healthcare services. The network facilitates knowledge and best practice sharing for speedy evaluation and adoption.

Centre for Health Service Studies (CHSS)

CHSS is a centre of research excellence based at the University of Kent. The centre undertakes high quality research into a wide range of health systems and health services issues at local, national and international levels. CHSS staff support and provide advice to health care staff to develop and undertake research projects. CHSS collaborates with a wide range of partners in Kent, the UK and in other countries to improve the links between research, policy and practice.