Funding to mentor next generation of world class healthcare researchers

Researchers from the University of Hertfordshire's School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work are part of a successful bid to secure funding to mentor the next generation of world class healthcare researchers.

Working alongside the Academy of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting Research (UK), Imperial College and the Allied Health Professions Research Network, the programme has received £189,719 to cover three years of funding. At a time of great financial pressure on the NHS, nurse-led innovation and research can improve the care and services provided to patients. The researchers, who are highly qualified and experienced in their healthcare fields have backgrounds as nurses, midwives and health visitors. Their research is often at the bedside, looking at aspects of care to make a real difference to patients' lives.

Sally Kendall, professor of nursing, University of Hertfordshire said: "The University of Hertfordshire is delighted to be involved in this key project to help develop future generations of world class healthcare researchers. Our experienced practitioners and active researchers bring their first-hand clinical expertise and enthusiasm to aid leading-edge healthcare research." Funded by the Department of Health's Chief Nursing Officer Directorate, one of the key goals of the programme is to develop nurses, midwives and other healthcare professionals as clinical academic leaders.

The programme provides regular mentoring from experts at the top of the healthcare professions to an elite group of around 30 researchers, who have been awarded national research fellowships. It will include: one-to-one mentorship support for Senior Clinical Lecturers and Clinical Lecturers; face-to-face and online mentorship training; and activities such as an annual event, regional hubs and professional networks.