Exploring the research interest, capacity and culture of NHS staff in South-East Scotland and changes in attitudes to research following the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: a qualitative study.

backgroundResearch is a key driver in improving the quality of care in health settings. The UK Government has published its strategy to increase research within the National Health Service (NHS) and to implement lessons learned from the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. We investigated the current research interest, culture, and capacity amongst staff in one medium-sized, regional Health Board in Scotland to determine how research activity may be increased and how attitudes to research may have changed following the recent pandemic.

methodsThis study was part of a two-phase evaluation with both quantitative and qualitative methods using an initial questionnaire (n = 503) and then semi-structured interviews with 28 staff recruited following completion of their questionnaire. Results from the first phase have been published; this paper presents the results of the second phase. The interview explored the perception of the research culture and capacity at an organisational, team and individual level. Topics included perceived barriers and facilitators for engaging in research activities and the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on changes in attitude to research within the NHS. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using thematic analysis.

resultsRespondents comprised 7 nurses/midwives, 6 doctors/dentists, 3 allied health professionals, 3 other therapeutic and 9 admin/support staff. All respondents identified similar facilitators and barriers to undertaking research, irrespective of their role or experience with research. Four key themes were: the influence of structural and professional differences, the need for protected time, access to resources, and increased visibility of research. Responses varied between staff grades; those with research embedded as part of their training and professional role expressed more accepting views to undertaking research. Issues identified were the provision of protected time, skills training, practical support from research facilitators working in clinical teams, active encouragement by managers, improved communication, and the adoption of a research strategy at Board level. Research activity declined during the pandemic, but respondents expressed an increased awareness of the importance of research as a priority in improving health outcomes during the pandemic.

conclusionsThe research interest and culture in our Health Board could be improved by addressing the four broad themes identified, thereby increasing research capacity in line with Government aspirations. The findings may have relevance for small to medium-sized Health Boards in the UK and elsewhere when responding to the call to increase their research profile.