Research & Innovation

NUH expands its research capabilities for children

A new facility dedicated to researching new treatments for conditions affecting younger patients will be officially unveiled at the Queen’s Medical Centre in November.

Backed by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, the NIHR Clinical Research Facility (CRF) for children expands NUH’s capabilities from catering for outpatients only, to providing five new beds to be used for inpatients and day care, or outpatients.

The refurbished facility, which is on E Floor in West Block, will allow researchers to expand their portfolio of studies to offer more “early phase” trials investigating paediatric diseases.

The CRF is being decorated with a bright, woodland theme to provide a welcoming environment and includes a play area. The Nottingham Hospitals Charity has funded the artwork, and the CRF has employed a full-time play specialist to support the psychological well-being of children who are taking part in research.

Dr Jeyanthi Rangaraj, senior clinical research physician at the CRF, said: “I enjoy working in a team and environment at a pace that is flexible, safe and comfortable for families, children and the research team caring for them.

“This unit is unique,” she added. “In the past I have been involved in trials where we had to use different facilities and ward spaces to conduct a study...the new children’s CRF brings everything together under one roof.”

Jess Simkin, senior research nurse, said: “The children’s research unit will help raise the profile of children’s research within NUH.

“Our vision is for the facility to enable essential research in an environment which is fun, friendly and inviting. We want to normalise research for children and their families and embed this into their hospital experience.”

Elisha Manasoko, research data clerk, said: “This amount of equipment and facilities in a single unit will not only improve the patient experience but also open more opportunities in terms of the kinds of research we can deliver.”