More than 17,000 people from across Liverpool and the surrounding area took part in research at NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group (UHL Group) over the past year, including studies supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), helping to shape the future of healthcare. Research teams supported 855 studies spanning all stages of life, from maternity and neonatal care through to long-term conditions, surgery, and specialist heart and lung services.
To mark International Clinical Trials Day on Wednesday 20 May 2026, teams celebrated the vital role of NIHR research in improving patient care and developing new treatments across the region.
NIHR research is embedded in everyday care at UHL Group, with patients routinely offered opportunities to take part in studies supported by NIHR infrastructure, including the NIHR Commercial Research Delivery Centre: Cheshire and Merseyside and the NIHR Clinical Research Facility: Liverpool.
This year’s celebrations also recognised the people who made research possible, including patients, staff and communities whose involvement drove innovation and improved outcomes.
Among them was Lahja Paulus, the first participant recruited at UHL Group to the NIHR BioResource Improving Black Health Outcomes study. This NIHR-supported study, delivered at the NIHR Clinical Research Facility: Liverpool, aimed to tackle health inequalities and improve inclusion in research.
Jules West, Director of Operations for Research & Innovation at UHL Group, said: “Research is part of everyday care across our hospitals, and International Clinical Trials Day is an opportunity to highlight the difference it makes to patients and communities.
“Supporting more than 17,000 participants across our research portfolio this year reflects both the dedication of our teams and the willingness of people across Cheshire and Merseyside to get involved. We are grateful to everyone who helps make research possible.”