For many radiographers, the idea of completing a piece of original research can be formidable. It involves time and money – both precious resources.
But for those taking the plunge it brings enormous benefits to them and the profession.
Thanks to CoRIPS, more radiographers are able to push the boundaries of clinical practice and knowledge.
“The support provided by CoRIPS has been vital,” says Rachel Harris, the College’s research officer.
“It is delivering benefits to both the profession and to industry by providing support for research and professional development. Lack of resources and a deficiency in stable funding have been noted by radiographers as stifling research,” explains Rachel.
Contributions from Partners in the first year – and this does not include the three companies who have most recently joined – totals £16,000. Research awards totaling £15,548 have been made.
Agfa Healthcare was one of the first organisations to join the scheme. Alan Budge of Agfa comments: “We value the Diamond Partnership we have with the College and endorse professional standards for all clinical people in the profession. We feel industry can also play a combined part in enhancing knowledge and skillsets both in terms of product and soft skills’ training.”
Dr Maryann Hardy, senior lecturer at the University of Bradford, and Beverley Snaith who works at the Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, applied for funding for a joint research.
They are researching current practice in relation to radiographer abnormality detection schemes in the trauma environment.
Nick Courtier was recently awarded funding and also received a bursary from the Research Capacity Building Collaboration covering fees and living costs for three years to undertake a PhD.
Nick says: “The scheme is relatively simple to apply for. My original application was clearly too brief, as I had to submit a number of clarifications and further detail in response to the peer-review process. A favourable decision was then received very promptly.”
Angela Eddy, senior lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University, is undertaking a pioneering study exploring the experiences of individuals undertaking education and training for role extension in therapy radiography.
She says: “I saw the call for funding in Synergy – Imaging and Therapy Practice and, for me, the timing was perfect. Receiving the award brought forward my plans and gave me funding to buy some of my time out to undertake the research. Plus it has allowed me to undertake some specific research training to support the data analysis part of the project.”
Sandra Mathers, research practitioner in radiography at Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, also received funding for her project X-Raying children: Identifying differences in practices between adult departments and dedicated childrens’ hospitals in Scotland.
To find out more email Rachel Harris.
