Almost nine in 10 Thames Valley health research participants would take part in another study, a new survey has revealed.

The survey focused on experiences of volunteering for research studies in the NHS, public health and social care in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Milton Keynes, and Oxfordshire.

A total of 1,222 people completed the questionnaire in 12 months from April 1, 2023.

The aim was to identify what is working well and where improvements can be made.

The results found 88 per cent of participants said research staff always treated them with courtesy and respect, and 87 per cent said they would consider taking part in research again.

Additionally, 86 per cent of participants said researchers valued their contribution to the research, and 84 per cent said the information they received prepared them before taking part.

Almost eight in 10 said they knew how to contact someone from the research team if they had any questions or concerns, 65 per cent said they knew how they would receive the results of the research, and 64 per cent said they had been kept updated about the research

The survey also found a third of comments about what was positive about their experience was about staff.

There was also praise for how organised and efficient trials were, including being flexible around appointments to fit around participants’ other commitments.

Many participants said they wanted to help others, with one respondent saying: "For me, it is about giving something back in a small way for all the care my family and I have received over the years."

The responses were for people on studies supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research Clinical Research Network (NIHR CRN), which funds and supports the delivery of health and care research trials.

Dr Nick Thomas, clinical director at the NIHR CRN Thames Valley and South Midlands, said: "The NIHR always welcomes this survey as it is a direct opinion from the most important member of the NHS clinical research community, the study participant.

"It is excellent to see that so many patients had good research experiences and that they would want to take part again.

"We are learning from all the feedback we received to ensure participants have the best possible research journey."

Responses on what could have been better included improved communication and receiving personal and overall study results.

A report about the results of the survey makes recommendations for research staff including communication about the study and results and planning the study where possible with the involvement of the public.