Patient-centred care throughout your research journey

At the NIHR St George’s Clinical Research Facility, care is at the heart of everything we do.

We provide a safe, welcoming and professional environment for patients and volunteers taking part in clinical research. Whether you are attending a one-off research appointment or taking part in a longer study, our team is here to support you at every stage.

Our staff work closely with your clinical team to make sure your research experience is clear, respectful and centred around your needs.

What you can expect from us

When you take part in research at St George’s, you will be supported by experienced research nurses, clinical staff and study teams who understand how important it is to feel informed and comfortable. You can expect:

• Clear information about the study and what it involves
• Time to ask questions before making a decision
• A calm and supportive environment for your visits
• Care delivered with dignity, compassion and respect
• Regular monitoring, where required by the study
• Support from staff who are trained in research and patient care
• Confidential handling of your personal and medical information

Taking part in research is always voluntary. Your care will not be affected if you choose not to take part.

Supporting you before, during and after your visit

Before you join a study, the research team will explain what the study is about, why it is being carried out and what taking part would involve. You will be given time to read the information, ask questions and decide whether taking part is right for you.

During your visits, our staff will guide you through each step. Depending on the study, this may include observations, blood tests, questionnaires, scans, treatment visits, sample collection or follow-up appointments. After your visit, we will continue to support you according to the needs of the study. This may include follow-up calls, additional appointments or ongoing contact with the research team.

Your safety is our priority

All studies delivered through the NIHR St George’s Clinical Research Facility are carefully reviewed before they begin. They must meet strict ethical, regulatory and governance standards to help protect participants.

Our teams follow approved study procedures and Good Clinical Practice standards. We monitor participants carefully where required and work closely with clinical teams to ensure concerns are identified and managed appropriately. If you have any questions or worries during a study, you can speak to the research team at any time. 

Care in a dedicated clinical research environment

Our Clinical Research Facility is designed to support safe and comfortable research visits.

We offer purpose-built clinic rooms, on-site laboratories and dedicated spaces for research teams, study monitors and secure study storage. These facilities help us deliver research efficiently while maintaining a high standard of care for patients and volunteers. Our environment is calm, professional and designed to make research participation as straightforward as possible.

Respect, dignity and inclusion

St George’s serves one of the most diverse communities in the UK. We are committed to making research accessible, inclusive and respectful for everyone. We aim to ensure that every participant feels welcomed, listened to and supported. We treat each person as an individual and recognise that everyone’s circumstances, needs and experiences are different. Where possible, we work with participants to make visits clear, manageable and comfortable.

Working with your clinical team

Research is delivered in partnership with hospital consultants, nurses, specialist teams, academic collaborators and study sponsors. If you are invited to take part in a study, this will usually be because your clinical team has identified that a study may be suitable for you. The research team will then explain the study in detail and support you in making an informed choice. Your usual healthcare team remains involved in your care, and research participation is coordinated carefully alongside your wider treatment or follow-up.