Research champions empower voices for research at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board

The Research and Development team at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board (ABUHB) recently held a special launch event to mark the induction of the first cohort of research champions, with the aim of creating a more impactful research culture.

This initiative, aimed at amplifying the “Voice for Research” across the Health Board, represents a significant step in their mission to make health and care research more inclusive and accessible.

The research champions initiative invites people from all walks of life - staff members, patients, carers and community members - to join together in advocating for research.

Champions are dedicated to raising awareness about research opportunities and encouraging greater participation. By bridging the gap between the research team and the wider community, these champions ensure that research efforts are representative and impactful, bringing diverse perspectives to the design and implementation of studies.

Emma Heron, Lead Research Nurse, said: “As a health board, we're looking towards embedding research more and more across our services. This means it’s much more likely that, as we do this, members of staff will come across a patient who's taking part in a clinical trial, for example.

“We are really hoping that the research champions will help us reach those communities that have traditionally been underrepresented in research.”

Looking ahead, Emma explained that the direction of the programme will be shaped by the champions themselves. She added: “We really need the research champions to help us and work with us, to tell us what they want and what’s important to them.

“By empowering research champions, we are fostering a network of advocates who can help us make research more inclusive and accessible. Their voices will be key to shaping how we engage with underrepresented groups and improve health equity through research.”

Jessica Jones, a respiratory physiologist and new research champion, said: “Understanding that I could contribute as much or as little as I wanted really encouraged me to get involved. I wanted to see what other ways I could implement research into my work to improve patient outcomes.”

Independent Board Member, Professor Helen Sweetland, said: “Research champions will play a vital role in promoting the benefits of research to patients and staff. NHS organisations involved with research see improved health outcomes. Patients can benefit from trials of new treatments, and staff gain increased satisfaction by working to improve patient outcomes.”

Dr Nicola Williams, Director of Support and Delivery at Health and Care Research Wales, said: “By empowering diverse voices from staff, patients, carers and community members, we can ensure that research efforts reflect the needs of the communities we serve. This collaborative approach is a great example of how Aneurin Bevan is embedding research in NHS Wales.”

Champions can engage at their own pace, with no minimum commitment required. Whether by speaking at community events, helping colleagues and patients access research opportunities, or sharing educational resources, champions can select activities that align with their interests and skills. They also play a vital role in spreading awareness within their clinical areas, ensuring that everyone is equipped to participate meaningfully in research initiatives.

If you’re inspired to join the movement, the ABUHB Research and Development team is always welcoming new participants.

Get in touch via the form, or email the team to find out how you can become a research champion and contribute to the future of health and care research.