Taking part in research

We believe there are huge benefits for you, your patients and psychiatry in general if you get involved in a research project.

The South West Division will help you to get involved by putting you in touch with the right people.

What are the benefits?

  • Research improves our understanding of mental health, and ultimately leads to improvements in patient care
  • Getting involved in research projects leads to a more varied and fulfilling career – you can get so much satisfaction out of it
  • You can include your contribution to research projects in your CPD records
  • If you’re a trainee, taking part in research is an important part of your training which we in the South West Division can help you deliver.

I’m just too busy!

We know it’s hard to find the time.

But remember, any contribution to a research project – from recruiting one patient to a study, to running a national project – is incredibly valuable.

I don’t feel qualified

Don’t worry if you feel you haven’t got the skills or experience, there’s lots of support available locally.

We can put you in touch with the right person who can find the most suitable research project and role for you.

Even if you’re a trainee, you’ll be surprised that contributing to research is a lot less daunting than you might expect.

Patients don’t want to take part in research

Patients do want to take part in research, studies have shown.

In a survey, 91% said they would be happy to be a subject - though some doctors assume the opposite.

OK I’m interested in taking part in research – what next?

Email the South West Division office and we’ll put you in touch with someone who can help you.

Read more to receive further information regarding a career in psychiatry