Faculty Ethics Panel

The ethical conduct of research, particularly when it affects the lives of vulnerable people, service users and patients, is a crucial part of any research project.  However, thinking ethically about research from the initial idea, the theoretical approach, the design of the study, the chosen method or approach and through to dissemination presents many challenges for researchers in our faculty.  We have therefore designed research governance arrangements to support researchers through this journey. This includes:

• Early advice and guidance from the Chair of the Faculty Ethics Panel including prior to funding bids
• Signposting to the most appropriate ethical approval process including external bodies
• Advice on relevant legal imperatives and the interface with professional codes of ethics
• An annual open development session on aspects of research ethics such as capacity and consent and the involvement of service users as co-researchers
• Development sessions for research supervisors
• Feedback on projects from service user perspectives
• Signposting to tools to assess the effectiveness of service user involvement as co-researchers or advisors on projects 

It is also important that all projects undergo the highest levels of scrutiny in this regard as they may be selected for CCCU institutional annual audit.  In addition we should be mindful of and influenced by the views of the public, patients and service users on whose behalf we undertake our research and this is a fundamental ethical issue.  

Public views of health related research ethics and governance

A recent evaluation of the HRA found that although public confidence in how individuals may be treated with dignity and respect as a participant in a health related research project has increased it is still relatively low in terms of the percentage feeling very confident (43%).  In addition this is lower for BME groups, older people and those from lower socio-economic groups.  However, this confidence is increased by the involvement of relevant patients or service users in the design stage of a study.  Interestingly the study found that university based researchers are the least trusted group (compared to GPs, Consultants, NHS researchers or nurse researchers) when it comes to accessing confidential patient records.  It is therefore important that researchers here consider these factors in their approach to ensuring the highest possible ethical standards of their research.

The full report can be found here.

Faculty Ethics Panel

This panel meets on a monthly basis to consider applications for internal full review.  The dates for 2019-20 can be found here.

The dates also include the cut-off date for receipt of full documentation at each panel to be considered.  We aim to provide full written feedback within two weeks of the meeting.  

The panel includes representation from all schools and academic areas and will co-opt expertise from other areas where necessary.  All projects are also provided with feedback from our Community Partner representative who is also a member of the panel.  It is also possible to request an expedited review if there are particular funding or other time pressures attached to a project.  In that case we will convene a virtual panel if a full panel is not immediately available. 

Document templates and further guidance can be found here.

Proportionate Review

Projects for Proportionate Ethical Review will be initially logged and screened through the university Research and Enterprise Development team before consideration by the Chair of the panel.

The ethics checklist for proportionate review can be found here.

External Review

Information on the Health Research Authority (HRA) and the process for research ethics approval of projects involving patients in the NHS in England can be found here.

The HRA also provides guidance for the approval of projects governed by the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and details can be found here.

Information on research ethics approval within prisons is via the National Offender Management Service (NOMS) and further information can be found here.

Projects undertaken outside of the UK

In the first instance researchers will need to identify the local arrangements for research ethics approval in the country and location of the project.  This includes any specific requirements for collaborative projects across more than one country, jurisdiction or involving colleagues in international partner institutions.  However, if there are no such procedures in place the panel can review such projects.  Please consult with the Director of Research Ethics and Governance if you have any questions about the process. 

CCCU Policies

Overarching policies and guidance can be found here.