The NIHR Collaborations for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care (CLAHRCs) legacy publication includes the following CLAHRC South London cases studies:
The research team introduced a standardised set of outcome measures – developed with patients and families – into palliative and end-of-life care services for the first time and developed resourses which are widely used nationally and internationally. They continue to provide support for the OACC resources through their ‘train-the-trainer’ workshops, phone and email support, free material online (including on https://pos-pal.org), opportunities to network and share information, and the OACC Community of Practice, a national forum for networking and peer support measures.
Researchers at CLAHRC South London ran a randomised controlled trial, to generate rigorous evidence that would support a national development of the Alcohol-related Frequent Attenders service comparing the impact of this service to usual care. The subsequent study found that the intervention reduced alcohol-related admissions to King’s College Hospital by 25% overall. In addition the inpatient cost showed an overall net saving of £10,569 per patient per year.
We’re proud of the many achievements of our NIHR CLAHRC South London. We will build on this legacy in the current research and implementation programme of the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) South London. The plan for this new work is closely informed by the needs of the local community. Working with our ARC partners, including policy makers, service users, and health and social care providers, alongside ARCs across the country, we are carrying out applied health and social care research in vital areas that will improve lives in south London and beyond.
The publication, ‘The legacy of the CLAHRCs 2014-19 - 5 years of NIHR-funded applied health research’ compiles key research projects from the NIHR Collaborations for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care (CLAHRCs). Drawing together case studies from priority themes, the document demonstrates how the CLAHRCs conducted innovative research leading to improved outcomes for patients, better and more cost-effective services while challenging health inequalities.
Dr Louise Wood CBE, co-lead NIHR, Director of Science, Research and Evidence at the Department of Health and Social Care, said:
“The NIHR CLAHRCs increased the country’s applied health and care research capacity and capability, making this a key strength of the NIHR. These case studies are a fantastic demonstration of the CLAHRCs’ impact on improving services and outcomes for patients and the public, across a wide range of priority areas. Our Applied Research Collaborations continue to build on this legacy.”
Since October 2019, the NIHR Applied Research Collaborations (ARCs) have continued the work of the CLAHRCs. They deliver research relevant to the needs of their local populations, while contributing to nationally identified research priority areas.