To apply for research funding from CoRIPS, radiographers have to write a proposal or description of the project. The proposal acts as a map to the research and lets the stakeholders know what the applicant is planning to do.
Added to that, the proposal ensures that there is a researchable question, appropriate methodology, and incorporates any practical and ethical issues that need to be addressed. The other benefit is that it clearly shows the resource requirements and how much funding will be needed.
Radiographers can apply for as much as £5000 for small projects and up to £10,000 for a higher award with the possibility of more funding if appropriate.
Applications for larger amounts will be considered and receiving funding from the College does not preclude applying elsewhere. In fact, this is encouraged.
Some radiographers do find making an application quite daunting, but there is help and support available. One successful applicant’s advice is to “make friends and build bridges”, so that those who have trodden the same path support applicants.
Rachel Harris, the CoR’s research officer, will talk through plans and ideas, before an application has even been made.
The College’s Research Group Working Party has endeavoured to highlight the importance of research within the profession and to input into national agendas and the wider healthcare environment, promoting the skills and values of radiographers in collaborative, interprofessional teams.
They also provide a communication link and research advice resource for members, with dedicated web pages on the sor.org website.
Rachel Harris: “Radiography must be based on evidence, and research is a source for that evidence. If we build up a good body of knowledge we will not only benefit as a profession, but we will help to develop overall patient care.”
Click for more information. Email Rachel Harris.
