Research governance

How we maintain and evaluate our care services and protect people who help us.

What is research governance?

Research governance is the means by which the quality of research into social care services in Suffolk is assured, and the rights of those involved protected.

Research is essential in planning and delivering effective and high quality care services.

Research governance in Suffolk

The Suffolk Research Governance Panel evaluates and gives final approval for all research studies in, and associated with, adult and children's social care.

The panel supports researchers to ensure they meet the required quality standards.

Does my study count as research? 

You can use this decision tool to help you work out whether or not your study is research, as defined by the UK Policy Framework for Health and Social Care Research.

If you need to make an application for Research Governance Panel consideration, please complete the Research Governance Application Form.

National research governance frameworks

Research governance in Suffolk works within national guidance.

Application with accompanying documents to be received 7 working days before the panel date by emailing researchgovernance@suffolk.gov.uk