A year of research impact for nursing and allied health professionals

Research at GOSH is a vibrant, inclusive space where nurses and allied health professionals (AHPs) are driving innovation, shaping policy, and transforming care for children and young people with complex health needs.

The latest annual report from the Centre for Outcomes and Experience Research in Children’s Health, Illness and Disability (ORCHID) shines a spotlight on the extraordinary contributions of these professionals. From pioneering studies to international collaborations, ORCHID is a hub of excellence that supports clinical academic careers and embeds a strong research culture across GOSH.

ORCHID champions nurses and AHPs at every stage of their research journey—whether they’re just starting out or leading major studies. Through mentorship, funding support, and strategic partnerships, the centre ensures that clinical voices are central to paediatric research.

This year’s report highlights a range of impactful studies led and supported by nurses and AHPs:

• SPACE Study: Exploring physical activity in children undergoing cancer treatment.
• IMPACT Study: Co-designing a chatbot to support families of children with rheumatological conditions.
• Seen and Be Heard: Addressing inequalities in cancer care for children with learning disabilities and autism.
• SPROCKET: Improving services for children with complex disabilities through systems-level innovation.
• Nursing CaRE: Investigating compassionate care delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• SaFE Study: Enhancing feeding and swallowing support for children with OA/TOF.

These projects are not only advancing clinical knowledge—they’re also amplifying the voices of children, families, and frontline staff.

Staff with links to ORCHID have been recognised nationally and internationally for their work, receiving awards for innovation, leadership, and excellence in research. Their findings have been published in leading journals and presented at major conferences, including the GOSH Conference 2024, where 28 ORCHID abstracts were featured in BMJ Paediatrics Open.

Fellowship income £1.6m

New research income £2m

57 peer reviewed publications

72 published abstracts

46 Conference presentations

10 PhD fellows

17 predoctoral fellows

ORCHID’s strategic goals for the coming year include:

• Strengthening research leadership and mentorship.
• Promoting equitable access to research opportunities.
• Supporting career development for nurses and AHPs.
• Enhancing collaboration across disciplines and borders.
• Increasing the accessibility of research through lay summaries and creative outputs.

At GOSH, research is making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families. The work of nurses and AHPs within ORCHID exemplifies this ethos, combining clinical expertise with compassion, creativity, and a commitment to equity.

We are proud to celebrate their achievements and look forward to the continued impact of their work.

If you’d like to join ORCHID's monthly presentation on new and emerging research at GOSH, please email Leahana.stonier@gosh.nhs.uk