The Comprehensive Clinical Research Network; implications for urological research in England

SummaryThe UK Clinical Research Network (UKCRN) was established by the National Institute of Health Research to improve quality and delivery of clinical research in the UK. The Comprehensive Clinical Research Network (CCRN) is its newest element, made of Comprehensive Local Research Networks (CLRNs) covering the whole of England, and underpinning the infrastructure and delivery of NHS clinical research in a range of specialty groups. The Urogenital Specialty Group is responsible for advising the UKCRN on feasibility of potential studies, topic-specific training, overseeing the relevant parts of the UKCRN portfolio of research and brokering interactions with research funders or professional bodies developing clinical trials. The CLRNs will have a major impact on research activity of urologists; they can provide flexibility and sustainability funding, and support research infrastructure. However, the CLRNs are performance managed, such that delivery of projected recruitment to trials will be crucial. Furthermore, research activity not in the UKCRN portfolio will no longer be supported free of charge. Interactions with equivalent bodies in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have not yet been formalised.