On 15th January 2025, Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (MPFT) proudly welcomed the first of its two research buses, marking an exciting milestone in its mission to bring health research directly to the heart of local communities. Neil Carr OBE, Chief Executive of MPFT, Jackie Small, Chair of MPFT Board and Ruth Lambley-Burke, Director of Research and Innovation at MPFT were on hand to cut the ribbon and officially unveil the innovative new resource.
Transforming the research landscape
The research landscape is changing, with a growing emphasis on creating opportunities for people to participate in studies outside traditional hospital settings. This shift makes research more open and accessible to local communities. For MPFT, whose vast geographical area spans across Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent, Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and Trust locations nationwide, including urban and rural communities, reducing the need for long-distance travel to participate in research is crucial.
About the research buses
The research buses are designed to bring health studies into the community, visiting diverse settings such as health centres, care homes, places of worship and voluntary hubs. Each bus is equipped with both clinical and consultation spaces, enabling a wide range of activities, from taking blood samples and conducting physical assessments to engaging in discussions about research opportunities. Both buses will carry an automated external defibrillator (AED) donated by local charity AED Donate.
How the project came to be
The project was made possible thanks to funding from the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR). This funding reflects the national drive to strengthen the UK’s position as a leader in research delivery and innovation.
Impact on communities and the future of research
The introduction of the research buses represents a significant step toward making research more person-centred. The buses will help MPFT reach populations who may find it difficult to attend traditional healthcare settings, offering them the chance to participate in industry research and access new therapies and treatments not yet part of standard care. Additionally, the mobile units will enable MPFT to expand its portfolio of studies, enhancing opportunities for patients, service users, and the wider community.
Neil Carr, Chief Executive of MPFT:
“MPFT is proud that research and innovation is part of our culture. Since becoming a university status NHS Trust, our research teams have worked tirelessly to consider how we can make research everyone’s business. Part of this has been thinking innovatively about ways to ensure that research and clinical development is accessible to all so that advancements in healthcare are equitable.
“As an organisation we serve thousands of individuals across a range of diverse communities. The arrival of the research buses marks an exciting step forward in truly working with all members of the local communities we serve and importantly bringing health research directly to them. We hope that this approach will drive up participation and build stronger relationships with our communities.”
Ruth Lambley-Burke, Director of Research and Innovation at MPFT:
“This is about breaking down barriers to participation. By taking research on the road, we can reach people in their own communities, giving them the opportunity to contribute to healthcare advancements that will have a real impact on their lives and those of future generations.”
Jackie Small, Chair of the MPFT Board:
“Betsy’s arrival is a fantastic milestone for MPFT and the communities across Staffordshire and Shropshire. The research bus will help us engage with people in a way that is truly inclusive, enabling everyone to play a role in shaping the future of healthcare.”
Visit the dedicated research bus page here: https://www.mpft.nhs.uk/researchbus
