The programmes form part of the Health and Care Professional (HCP) Internship Programme, which aims to provide flexible and tailored training to help professionals develop research skills and leadership capabilities. The initiative is expected to play a significant role in building research capacity across England and ensuring that opportunities are accessible regardless of geography.
A total of £10.5 million has been awarded to the 12 programmes, each led by an NHS trust in collaboration with partner organisations. Over the next three years, the programmes will provide 276 bespoke internships annually, offering hands-on research experience and mentorship.
The HCP Internship Programme is targeted at pre-doctoral applicants and will be available to a wide range of registered professionals, including:
- Nurses
- Midwives
- Allied health professionals
- Pharmacists
- Healthcare scientists
- Social workers
- Public health professionals
- Other registered professionals within health and social care (excluding doctors and dentists)
Professor Waljit Dhillo, Dean of the NIHR Academy, emphasised the importance of the programme, stating:
“The NIHR is passionate about people and developing careers in research. The new Health and Care Professional Internship Programme is vital for developing the skills for future generations of health and care researchers.
“Developing skills in research and innovation is an important part of training a workforce fit for the future, to tackle health inequalities and improve health outcomes. These opportunities are critical for building a research active workforce within health and care and exposing health and social care professionals to the benefits of research. I look forward to seeing the positive impact and difference the programme will have.”
The initiative represents a major step in strengthening research capability across England’s health and social care system, creating pathways for professionals to contribute to evidence based practice and improved patient care.
