Background

Clinical research is important to ensure evidence-based care that improve terminal illness outcomes [1]. Research in hospices can be challenging due to lack of time, support and research awareness amongst staff [2]. Closer working relationships with researchers in the clinical environment could increase visibility of research, help researchers to engage with staff and support clinicians to develop skills
and competency.

Aims

To create a research space in the clinical environment of a UK hospice, to enable researchers to be more visible and accessible to patients, caregivers and staff.

Methods

Short term development works at the hospice has created the opportunity to re-purpose some clinical space on a temporary basis for a variety of projects. Through this initiative the research team converted a clinical room to a space for researchers to work in the clinical environment and engage with staff. The research hub was used for a number of activities such as displaying research work, carrying out interviews and providing a creative space for the development of the 12 month ‘designer in residence’ programme. Plans to evaluate the
research hub are in progress.

Results

Increased visibility of researchers has helped to promote a research culture in our hospice. The project has led to increased engagement from patients, caregivers, clinical and non-clinical staff. Hospice staff have increased participation in research activities such as abstract writing, conference attendance, grant applications and participating in journal club.

Conclusion

Creating a research space in a clinical environment can provide opportunities for better engagement between researchers, patients, caregivers and staff. We are exploring opportunities to make the research hub a permanent feature in the hospice. Evaluation of the research hub is in progress to determine its success to explore potential for translation to other hospices.