Comprehensive Local Research Networks

The Comprehensive Clinical Research Network consists of 25 Comprehensive Local Research Networks (CLRNs) covering the whole of England. Click on the areas below for further information about each Network.

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CLRNs are the primary vehicle for providing infrastructure to support study involvement. They encourage participation in a range of high quality clinical studies in the NIHR CRN CC portfolio and provide a coordinated and efficient infrastructure of research personnel and facilities to support recruitment.

The structure and organisation of each CLRN varies according to the demographic make-up of the local population and the nature of the service providers within it.

What type of support do CLRNs provide?
The type of support provided by a CLRN includes some or all of the following:

• appropriate staff costs, such as:
  a part time Clinical Lead for Research
  a full time Network Manager
  Research Management staff
  Research Nurses
  Clinical Trials Officers/Practitioners
  Data Managers
  sessional protected time for clinicians of all professions who enter patients into clinical research studies within the NIHR CRN CC portfolio
  other clinical staff sessions
  
• appropriate infrastructure in the primary care setting, such as:
  practice nurse time
  receptionist time
  manager time
  
• appropriate diagnostic test or clinical services costs, such as:
  pharmacy support
  pathology support
  radiology support
  information technology support
  
• essential running costs
  office set up
  office consumables
  
• essential training and education:
  launch meetings
  topic specific operational and training meetings.

How do CLRNs operate?
Each CLRN is led by a Clinical Director who provides leadership for all aspects of the CLRNs work, including developing the Network strategy and overseeing its implementation, supported by a CLRN Executive Group and a Senior Manager.

Each CLRN has a broader Network Board which includes representation from all the NHS organisations, and relevant higher education institutions and other stakeholders, within the CLRN area. The Network Board takes oversight of the activities of the CLRN to ensure that the interests and priorities of the constituent organisations are carefully considered and inform its activities.

The CLRN host organisation provides the high quality management services required by the Network, such as human resources, finance, premises and facilities.

Last updated: 11 May 2009