North Bristol NHS Trust has officially been named an Affiliate Site of the UK Dementia Trials Network (UKDTN), a government-funded initiative aimed at transforming the landscape of dementia research across the country.
The UKDTN is building a co-ordinated, tiered network of over 20 clinical trial sites nationwide, with the goal of establishing the UK as a global leader in inclusive, rapid, and impactful dementia research. This strategic move marks a significant step toward creating a more connected and effective ecosystem for dementia trials.
A Vision for Inclusive and Accelerated Research
The network, centrally coordinated by University College London Hospitals (UCLH), is designed to operate as a federated model—flexible and responsive to the evolving needs of individual sites, industry collaborators, and the broader research community. Through this model, UKDTN aims to ensure faster and fairer access to clinical trials for all people living with dementia.
Key features of the initiative include:
- A real-time database to monitor site capacity and capability, enabling efficient trial placement and streamlined delivery.
- A national training framework to support workforce development and ensure high standards of care and research.
- Dedicated participant support to enhance the experience of those involved in trials.
Collaborative Effort Across Sectors
The UKDTN brings together researchers, healthcare providers, industry partners, patients, and charities in a unified effort to make the UK the ‘go-to’ destination for dementia clinical trials. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the network is laying the groundwork for long-term sustainability and excellence in dementia research.
North Bristol NHS Trust’s inclusion in this pioneering network underscores its commitment to advancing dementia care and research and promises new opportunities for patients to participate in cutting-edge clinical trials.