DRSW South West research strategy

Our plan for developing a research skilled workforce in health and social care
Waves on a sandy beach

NHS South West strategic research workforce capacity and capability plan on a page

This co-produced document focuses on the education, training, and development of a research skilled workforce. This workforce includes such people as registered health, social care and scientific professionals in the south west, support workers, and their employing organisations and integrated care boards.
We aim to use promotion of the strategy to create a research movement leading to a step change for an aware and research skilled workforce.
There are six domains to this strategy:
  1. Invest in and nurture our workforce
  2. Improve access and equity
  3. Lead by example
  4. Support South West research priorities
  5. Grow our influence
  6. Create a thriving research culture

Professions included in the target workforce:

Allied health professionals (AHPs)
Art therapists
Drama therapists
Music therapists
Podiatrists
Dietitians
Occupational therapists
Operating department practitioners
Orthoptists
Osteopaths
Paramedics
Physiotherapists
Prosthetists and orthotists
Radiographers
Speech and language therapists


Dental carers (dental care nurses, dental technicians, dental hygienists)
Opticians
Pharmacists
Public health professionals
Chiropractors
Healthcare scientists
Medical associate professionals (MAPs)
Midwives
Nurses
Nurse associates
Registered psychological professionals and psychology practitioners
Social workers
Clinical researcher practitioners

This regional work programme aims to align the national research strategies with local work at organisational and integrated care board level.