When curiosity meets opportunity: A first step into research
Our very own Psychiatry Specialty Doctor, Dr Disha Pandurangi, has shared her journey into clinical research and her involvement in the Prevalence of Pathogenic Autoantibodies in Psychosis (PPIP2) study in a new article from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).
In the article, Dr Pandurangi talks about how a simple leaflet sparked her interest in research, leading her to join the NIHR Associate Principal Investigator Scheme. She reflects on the hands-on experience she gained, the support she received, and how research has now become part of everyday care on her ward.
Read the full article on the NIHR website here.
Join the Improving Black Health Outcomes BioResource
The IBHO BioResource is a vital new research initiative working to better understand the health conditions affecting Black communities in the UK. From common illnesses like diabetes and pregnancy complications to conditions such as sickle cell disease that disproportionately or exclusively affect Black individuals, the study aims to uncover both social and biological factors that influence health outcomes. It also seeks to shed light on under-researched issues like anxiety, depression and skin conditions within these communities, helping to build a more inclusive and evidence-based approach to care.
For the purposes of the IBHO BioResource, ‘Black communities’ refers to individuals from the following ethnic backgrounds: Black African, Black Caribbean, Black African-Caribbean, Black British, Black Welsh, Black Irish, Black Scottish, Dual or Mixed Black heritage, and/or Black ‘other’.
Participants will be asked to complete a short questionnaire (approximately 15 minutes) and provide either a blood or saliva sample. As a thank you, they will receive a £15 gift voucher.
To take part in this research study or to find out more, please contact Lizwi Nyathi at lizwi.nyathi@nhs.net or call 0777 555 2811.
Help shape a new intervention for psychosis: participants needed
A new research initiative is inviting both individuals with lived experience of psychosis and mental health clinicians to take part in focus groups aimed at developing a brand-new intervention to support recovery and positive change.
For individuals with lived experience of psychosis, the study is seeking participants aged 18 or over who live in England and have experienced conditions such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder or hearing voices. Those currently experiencing alternative states of reality are also welcome. Interviews will be conducted in English or with the support of a translator, and participants will be reimbursed for their time.
For mental health clinicians, the study is looking for professionals with clinical registration who have experience working with people with psychosis and delivering manualised CBT or narrative therapy. Clinicians will be invited to join a two-hour focus group to contribute their expertise to the development of the intervention.
This research is part of the EPOCH programme and has received ethical approval (IRAS: 333202). Scan the QR codes on the flyer for further information and sign-up forms if you are interested in participating.
By taking part, both service users and clinicians will help shape a meaningful and inclusive approach to supporting people through psychosis.
