UHSM is leading the way in recruiting patients to take part in clinical research studies.

Highlighted in a league table published for the first time by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Clinical Research Network, the Trust recruited 21,476 patients in 2010/11 - the best in the North and the second highest total for an NHS Trust in England.

Praising the achievement Dr Jonathan Sheffield, Chief Executive of the NIHR Clinical Research Network, said:

"This is fantastic news and illustrates that our partners in South Manchester are truly placing research at the core of NHS business. It indicates a strong commitment to research and innovation as well as their drive to improve clinical outcomes for patients. We are keen to see other Trusts follow their example and truly embed research as a standard option within their care culture."

"We know that 97% of Trusts take part in research, but it’s important to look behind that figure to see the true picture. The league table helps us recognise the research commitment of NHS staff throughout England, but also shows that we still need to do more to put research on the radar in some areas of the NHS."

Fostering a research-active culture brings a host of benefits for patients, clinicians and the NHS. It drives innovation, gives rise to better and more cost-effective treatments, and creates opportunities for staff development.

Growing evidence also suggests that NHS organisations that are research-active appear to do better in overall performance, and an organisation’s research activity is linked to improved patient outcomes.