Protected Characteristics Project
Under-representation in research participation reduces the generalisability of findings, exacerbates poor patient outcomes and increases treatment costs. This compounds the inequalities that individuals already face, which leads to poorer health, poorer quality of life and an increased risk of premature mortality.
Little data on protected characteristics, socio-economic background or caring responsibilities is routinely collected from research participants. It is therefore impossible to robustly identify which communities and groups are excluded from research studies for which they are eligible. It also means that progress in improving representation in research participation cannot be measured.
To address this, we co-developed a questionnaire with members of the public to collect protected characteristics, caring data and index of deprivation (IMD) according to postcode. We also involved members of the public in co-creation of KPIs to monitor diversity in research participation.
Aims
- To establish an efficient process to collect protected characteristics data at scale on patients.
- To develop KPIs to be able to measure effectiveness of interventions to widen research participation.
Potential impact
It is anticipated that we will have a completed snapshot of the protected characteristics of research participants by the end of March 2025. This baseline data will be used to inform and measure the effects of current and planned initiatives to widen and diversify research participation within the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire area and beyond.
