Take part in arthritis research

Our research has helped to make life-changing breakthroughs and improve the lives of millions of people living with arthritis but there’s still work to do. Research participation is critically important for the breakthroughs of the future. Find out how to take part in research projects as well as answers to some common questions about research participation.

People with arthritis around the UK are not getting the treatment, support and care they deserve. We want research to make arthritis preventable, manageable, and treatable. Research needs to be making a bigger difference to people’s lives, quicker. So, people don’t live with the pain, fatigue and isolation of arthritis.

Through research we can understand the causes of arthritis, develop effective treatments and improve the lives of people.

But for research to make progress we need more people to take part in research studies.

Why should I take part?

There are many reasons that people choose to take part in research:

• To improve healthcare for others through things such as new treatments, tests, and tools.
• To learn more about their condition.
• To try a new treatment or device.
• To be more closely and regularly monitored by health and care professionals.
• To help researchers learn important new information. 

The results from research are applied to all communities. But often, there is not an equal mix of ethnicities in the projects. Taking part in research like clinical trials is important for all. Not only does it offer the chance to access the latest treatments but unless you take part the medicines and healthcare of the future may not be suitable for you, your children and theirs.

How can I find a study I can take part in?

You can ask your doctor, nurse or healthcare professional about clinical trials or other health and care studies.

Finally, you can visit the “Be Part of Research” website to explore a wide range of projects who need people to take part.

What kind of research can I take part in?

There are many different types of research. Some test new treatments or require samples, others may involve interviews or surveys.

A lot of research will be carried out in healthcare settings, but some will be based in universities, research centres and increasingly, in the community. Some people participate in research from their own homes through telephone interviews or written questionnaires.

Research can be carried out by many different people, but often researchers are the doctors and healthcare professionals who treat you.

Some research may require your one-off involvement, while others may have several follow ups over a period of time. Below are some examples of what this may involve:

• A trial comparing two treatments.
• Surveys or focus groups to understand people’s experiences.
• Observation over a period of time.
• Collecting information about lifestyle or nutrition.
• Having a scan or a blood test.

Researchers will explain what’s involved in their study before you decide if you want to take part. It’s always your choice whether to take part and you can change your mind at any time.

How do I know if it is a good research project?

Most research projects are scientifically reviewed by an independent panel. All research done in the NHS must also follow the guidelines, which make sure that the project is safe, ethical and of a high quality.

Once the scientific review has taken place, the researchers have to apply for funding. Another independent review is carried out by the organisation awarding the money.

If you’re a participant, you can find out if the study has been approved by an ethics committee. It’s their job to look after your rights and well-being. The ethics committee will look at the information you’ll be given and check that it contains all the information you’ll need to make a decision about taking part in the research. It will make sure that the information is presented in a fair and balanced way. NHS research projects can't start without this approval.

Whatever research you take part in, you should feel happy and confident about your role.

If you decide you don’t want to be involved in a particular study, you don’t have to take part. Whether you were approached or you volunteered yourself, you can choose to leave the project at any point. No one will be offended, and you don’t have to give a reason. It won’t affect your normal care and it doesn’t mean that you can’t take part in research in future.