Name:
Helena Marzo-Ortega
Tell us about your project:
At the heart of Leeds City Centre, Dermatology and Rheumatology researchers from the Leeds Biomedical Research Centre, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, hosted a research drop-in centre for one week between 5th – 10th December 2022.
Our doors were open from morning until evening, welcoming individuals from all walks of life.
How did you involve people?
We were there to provide personalized guidance and support. In addition, expert rheumatologists were in attendance to any help with associated joint symptoms.
How did you find people to involve in your project?
Psoriasis mobile Outreach unit. This was set up in the Leeds city centre, and had two consultation rooms available to provide participants with privacy. The unit offers a unique opportunity to recruit patients from a busy city centre while still providing them with a private space. The unit averaged 25 patients recruited each day.
Video link: https://leedsbrc.nihr.ac.uk/2023/10/18/welcome-to-the-coppaca-community-project/
How did you support people in your project?
We made the unit easily accessible and provided them with a private and confidential space to participate. The dermatology team also shared valuable insights and practical advice on managing skin conditions effectively at home.
Can you give more examples of how you worked with them?
By visiting our clinic, patients actively supported ongoing research endeavours. This research aims to enhance our understanding of the profound impact of psoriasis and other skin conditions on individuals. Through their participation, we move one step closer to tailored solutions, ensuring that those in need can access the treatment they require.
What impact did it have?
During our research drop-in clinic in December, we had the privilege of assessing and engaging with over 300 individuals. Our dedicated dermatology team shared valuable insights and practical advice on managing skin conditions effectively at home.
Our project brings together experts in dermatology and rheumatology, working as part of a broader program focused on investigating the early stages of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis—a related chronic inflammatory joint condition.
What tips would you give another researcher?
The mobile unit was very successful, and made reaching people who don’t normally get involved in research much easier.