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Leicester Respiratory Biomedical Research Unit
NHS National Institute for Health Research
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You are here:   Home  »  Public  »  Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions

What research is going on?

Our research goals are to improve the health and wealth of the nation through research.  Researchers at the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Leicester Respiratory Biomedical Research Unit are dedicated to investigating lung diseases and focus on promoting the development of new and effective therapies for the treatment of severe asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).


Who funds our research?

Many of our research projects are funded or supported by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) which is the research arm of the NHS.  We also conduct research that is funded through other government funding schemes, charities and industry such as pharmaceutical companies.


Who approves the research?
All research carried out at our Trust is reviewed and given a favourable ethical opinion by a National Research Ethics Committee.  A favourable ethical opinion means that the committee are satisfied that your rights will be respected and that you have been given sufficient information on which to make an informed decision.  All research is also reviewed by the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust Research and Development department.


How can I participate?

If you are interested in volunteering for our research please go to ‘Get Involved’ and submit the volunteer form.  One of our research team will then get in contact with you. 

 

You do not have to take part in a research study, it is up to you whether or not to take part in any particular study.  If you do decide to take part, you are still free to withdraw at any time and without giving a reason.  This will not affect any future standard of care you receive within the NHS.


What if I have concerns about the research?
If you have any questions or concerns about the research please contact the study team and their details can be found on the study specific patient information sheet.   Alternatively, please contact the Patient Information and Liaison Patient Information and Liaison Service (PILS) at the hospital


What will happen when I arrive?
On arrival at the research Unit you will be greeted by our friendly receptionist who will confirm details of your appointment.  One of the research team will then come and collect you and take you through for your appointment.


What will I have to do?

This depends on the study and will be detailed in the participant information leaflet.  Many studies include tests such as breathing tests, blood tests and questionnaires.  Our most common tests are listed on the 'Tests and Investigations' page. 


What will happen at the end of my visit?
We will ensure that all follow-up arrangements have been made and confirmed and that you are happy before you leave the unit.


Will my taking part affect my current treatment?

Depending on the research study you decide to take part in you may have to refrain from taking certain medications at certain points.  The study doctor will explain this to you.


How many times will I have to come to the hospital and for how long?

This all depends on the research study you decide to take part in.  Information on each study visit and how long you will have to be at the research unit for will be detailed in the specific study participant information sheet.


What if I am not suitable for a particular study?

If you are not suitable for our current studies with your permission we will keep your information on our recruitment database so that you can be considered for future studies.


Will I receive any reimbursement?

You will receive reimbursement for travel and parking costs when you attend the unit as part of a research study.  We may also be able to offer transport depending on the research study.  Some research studies may also offer reimbursement for your inconvenience.  Details of any reimbursements are given in the participant information sheet relevant to individual studies. 


Will my data be kept confidential?

All information that we collect about you will be kept strictly confidential.  Any data that is stored electronically will be password protected.  If you take part in a research study you will be given a unique study number that will be used in place of any identifiable information, such as your name.  This will be used on all your study data and only the study team will have access to your information.  Your data and medical notes may also be looked at by responsible individuals from the study team, the sponsor of the study, the NHS Trust or regulatory authorities to check that the research is being carried out correctly.  You will not be named in any publication or reporting of the results of the study.


What happens to the results of a research study?

The results of a research study will usually be published in scientific journals and presented at national and international conferences.  Sometimes this is some time after the study has finished.  We aim to provide a summary of the results to you, and you can request a summary of the results from the study team.


Who does the research?
This will depend on the study, but it may be a combination of doctors, nurses and healthcare professionals. Research can also be done by students. Please feel free to ask the study team who is doing the research.


Is research safe?

Large numbers of people take part in thousands of clinical trials and research studies in the UK every year.  Rigorous processes, including review by an NHS Research Ethics Committee, are in place to protect the rights, dignity, safety and well-being of participants.


What are the benefits of taking part?

You will be contributing to first class research and will be helping future patients who may benefit from new treatments.


How will the research help?

The research undertaken by the unit will:

  • Help to develop new and effective therapies for the treatment of severe asthma and COPD.
  • Improve the services provided by the NHS

 

If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact the friendly staff at the BRU.  Please see our Contact Us page.