Written question WQ89160

The Welsh Government recognises the importance of including a broad range of participants in health and social care research, including clinical medical trials, so that the results can be generalisable to a broad population. As much of the regulatory, ethics and governance framework for health and social research operates at a UK level, working collaboratively with our UK counterparts is key to increasing the diversity of people taking part in research studies.

Officials from Health and Social Services Research and Development Division are working with colleagues at Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and Health Research Authority (HRA), along with colleagues in the other Devolved Governments, to develop guidance outlining expectations in relation to inclusivity and diversity in clinical trials. The work programme also includes reviewing the current ethics and approvals processes to ensure that participant diversity is appropriately considered.

In December 2023, Health and Care Research Wales, as part of the UK Wide Be Part of Research service, will launch an initiative that enables individuals to sign up and indicate their interest in participating in research. Through joining this register, it will provide enhanced opportunities for people to be matched to suitable research studies.

Additionally, Welsh Government officials are discussing with the Department of Health and Social Care the need to develop projects that can aid understanding of the demographics of participation in research trials.