Research staff working towards Clinical Research Practitioner status across Wales

To celebrate this week (18- 24 July) dedicated to Clinical Research Practitioners, we chat to research staff across Wales working towards this registration which aims to improve the professional identity of research delivery staff, providing a clear career pathway.

Ronda Loosley, a Clinical Research Officer at Hywel Dda University Health Board talks about her experience. She said:

I’ve worked in research for many years now as a Research Assistant in setting up clinical trials and now more recently, patient facing in my new Clinical Research Officer role, helping facilitate some of the most amazing research happening in Wales.

I wanted to work towards this registration as a way of validating my role. I know that myself and the team in the department are the experts in research delivery and to have an accreditation and title gives us a professional recognition amongst our peers.”

In order to become a Clinical Research Practitioner, research staff complete a series of core skill competencies based on the needs of individual studies, and ensuring patient safety in clinical trials.

Mum of two Ronda, 43 from Aberystwyth, continues:

Working towards this recognition has reignited my love of learning and I’m actually going back to university to study for a part-time Masters in Clinical Research with Cardiff University.

Now my children are older, I can focus on my own career development however it does mean I’ll be studying the same time as my youngest daughter is doing her GCSEs; I’ve suggested study nights together however not sure how well that will work!”

Jayne Goodwin, National Head of Research Delivery at Health and Care Research Wales, said:

Clinical Research Practitioners are a vital component in our research workforce, aiding the delivery of high-quality and impactful clinical research. The accreditation scheme helps raise the status of the CRP professionals, recognises their contributions and ensures they are given the same professional development as other recognised professionals. We are thrilled to see Sean receiving the first registered accreditation in Wales and more CRPs working towards this accreditation.”

The accreditation scheme is launched by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, in partnership with the Academy for Healthcare Science Accredited Registers Programme and is recognised by the Professional Standards Authority. 

For more information on how to start your journey visit the NIHR website and chat to your line manager or if you’re working towards becoming a CRP, follow the conversation on twitter using #CRPractitioner