Research and implementation
We actively involve patients and health and care professionals to produce high-quality research that addresses the real healthcare concerns of people living in the South West and beyond.
The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care (ARC) West works with its partner organisations to conduct applied health research and implement research evidence, to improve health and healthcare across the West of England.
We undertake applied health research projects, in collaboration with our partners and others in our region and nationally. The research we do must have a real world application and fall into one of our broad thematic areas of ‘improving the management of chronic diseases’ and ‘public health interventions and population health’.
We work across the following research themes
Dementia and Neurological Conditions
Our research aims to improve the lives of people living with dementia and those who support them. We explore ways to improve diagnosis and support, help people stay independent, and promote wellbeing and inclusion. Working with people affected by dementia, we develop practical, evidence-based approaches that can make a difference across the South West and beyond.
Mental Health
Our research aims to improve mental health and wellbeing for people of all ages, while making sure everyone can access the right support when they need it. We explore ways to improve mental health services, strengthen connections between mental and physical health, and develop new approaches that make support more accessible in communities. Working with people with lived experience, families, health and care professionals and community organisations, we develop practical solutions that can reduce inequalities and improve mental health and wellbeing across the South West and beyond.
Prevention
Our research aims to help people live healthier lives and prevent ill health by tackling the factors that affect our health and wellbeing. We explore ways to prevent conditions such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease, while also addressing wider issues such as mental health, poverty, housing and access to support. Working with communities, health and care professionals and local organisations, we develop practical solutions that can improve health, reduce inequalities and make a difference across the South West and beyond.
Ageing Well
Our research aims to help people live healthier, more independent lives as they grow older. We explore ways to prevent falls, improve rehabilitation and support people living with frailty and multiple long-term conditions. Working with older people, carers, families and health and care professionals, we develop practical solutions that improve quality of life and the way care is delivered across the South West and beyond.
Methods for Research and Implementation
Our research aims to improve health and care by finding better ways to understand what works and how it can make a real difference to people’s lives. We explore how research can be designed, evaluated and put into practice, using data and evidence to help improve services and support better outcomes. Working with researchers, health and care professionals, patients and communities, we develop practical approaches that can strengthen health and care across the South West and beyond.
Children and Young People’s Health
Our research aims to give children and young people the best possible start in life and help them grow up healthy and well. We explore ways to improve care and support for children and families, reduce health inequalities, and make sure everyone can access the help they need. Working with children, young people, families and communities, we develop practical solutions that can improve services and make a difference across the South West and beyond.
