HHTU 2024 Reflection
Sharing our Research
2024 allowed us to reflect on the growth of the HHTU which has been open 5 years. There was no greater evidence of that growth than our attendance at International Clinical Trials Methodology Conference (ICTMC).
In 2022 we had 1 poster.
In 2024 11 posters were presented.
The 2024 posters were on various topics, including trial methodologies, participant engagement, and innovative approaches to data collection. This year six members of the HHTU were able to attend the event in Edinburgh. ICTMC is a major event for clinical trial professionals, researchers, and the public, providing an opportunity for HHTU to showcase their work. The conference offered valuable learning experiences, with keynote speeches and presentations that enhanced attendees’ research skills. It also provided a platform for networking and collaboration, and allowed attendees to gain insights into the latest developments in clinical trial technology and methodology.
In addition to ICTMC, HHTU staff have presented at several other events, both locally and internationally. Judith presented on the MOI-A Study in Budapest (October) and Bologna (June), while Mahe presented virtually at a conference in Iran (May). Mahe and Charlotte Kelly also showcased a poster at the Annual Allam Lecture in Hull (September).
Working Together
This year, two “away days” were organised, providing a valuable opportunity for teams to come together and discuss important projects and topics. They offered a chance for team members to connect and engage and work together to look at ways to improve procedures and overcome any challenges. The focus was on the Data Team and the Trial Teams, with Operations Manager Bronwen Williams emphasising the value of getting everyone in the same room despite the mix of home and office working.
In addition to these collaborative events, two leaders were recognised as “Brilliant Leaders” this year. The University’s Building Brilliant Leaders Programme is designed to help leaders understand their impact on their teams and foster inclusive environments. Trial Manager Matthew Northgraves, who is currently participating in the course, and Sarah Sumpter, who completed it this year, were the two leaders highlighted. Sarah shared that the programme helped her rethink leadership, boosting her confidence in managing people-related challenges.
As well as this, John Turgoose, a senior team member, was appointed joint chair of the UKCRC Data and Information Systems Operational Group. This appointment reflects the HHTU’s commitment to sharing experiences and collaborating to tackle challenges.
These personal achievements, combined with regular team meetings, contribute to the goal of growing together as a strong and connected team.
A Big HHTU Milestone
A big achievement to end 2024 is that the Hull Health Trials Unit are now a fully registered Clinical Trials Unit after being provisionally registered since 2019.
The UK Clinical Research Collaboration (UKCRC) full registration for clinical trials units (CTUs) is a system designed to assess and formally recognise clinical trials units (CTUs) in the UK based on their ability to deliver high-quality, efficient, and ethical clinical research. This registration is important for CTUs as it provides formal recognition of their capability to manage and deliver complex clinical trials, particularly those that involve public funding or collaborations with other research entities. Achieving UKCRC Full Registration is an indicator that a CTU is capable of managing large, complex trials with a high standard of professionalism, compliance, and research integrity. It reflects a commitment to conducting research that can impact public health and clinical practice, and often signals that a CTU is capable of working with various stakeholders, including academic institutions, hospitals, government bodies, and pharmaceutical companies.
We have no doubt that 2025 will be another year of growth with more collaboration, dissemination and achievements to come.
All at HHTU would like to wish all our colleagues and collaborators a restful Christmas Break and a very Happy New Year.
The HHTU will be closed from 5pm Friday 20th December until 9am Thursday 2nd January.
