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Taking part in a clinical trial at GOSH - easy read

A family sitting at a computer screen with hospital staff

At GOSH, we put research and innovation at the heart of what we do. because research helps us learn more and improve care for patients, supporting them to feel more informed and confident.

Without you, and people like you, we couldn't carry out this research. This page explains simply what you can expect if you are considering taking part in a clinical trial.

Taking part in a clinical trial at GOSH

  1. A cartoon replica of someone looking at a clipboard with a document on it labelled 'Patient Information Sheet'

    When your clinical team think you may be suitable for a research project, you’ll be approached by a member of the team. They’ll explain what the research is for, and what we’re hoping to learn, usually in the form of a 'patient information sheet'.
  2. A family sitting at a computer screen with hospital staff

    If you are interested in learning more, you will be invited for a screening appointment, where we'll go through everything again and you can ask any questions you might have.
  3. An illustration of a laptop

    If you want to take part, we will record this as 'consent' and store it securely in your electronic medical record.
  4. A consent form where all the options have 'no' selected

    Depending on the project, you might fill in surveys.
  5. An illustration of a drip bag

    You might take a familiar medicine in a new way.
  6. A cartoon of someone receiving an x-ray

    Or try an entirely new treatment
  7. A cartoon map of GOSH

    You may come to a new area of the hospital or come more often. These are all things to consider when deciding whether you want to take part.
  8. Black and blue illustration of a needle on a white background

    Your research appointments may include surveys, blood tests, heart scans or physical examinations. This will all have been explained to you and nothing should come as a surprise.
  9. A cartoon calendar

    To create the safest, strongest research with the most reliable results, it’s important that you attend your scheduled appointments.
  10. A cartoon calendar with some dates crossed out

    But we know that sometimes changes need to be made and we’ll work with you and be as flexible as we can.
  11. Black and blue illustration of a circle of people holding hands on a white background

    If you ever have questions, or if you decide you no longer want to take part, you can speak to the research team at any time. You can withdraw your consent, and this will not affect your care. Participation is always voluntary.
  12. A chart showing graphs and data

    Trials can last one year or many. At the end of this time, the research team will look at information from everyone taking part. to understand whether the treatment worked as hoped and whether it’s safe.
  13. An illustration of people looking at a big screen with a red 'X' on it

    Sometimes, research studies can end suddenly, without much notice. This is called a study termination.
  14. A family sits with GOSH staff under a red 'X'

    If a study ends unexpectedly, the team will speak with you as soon as possible to explain what has happened and what it means for you.
  15. Blue and white illustration of a shooting star on a white background

    Sometimes you may be able to continue the treatment outside of the trial. If this is the case for you, the research team and your clinical team will work with you and the sponsor of the trial to explore if this is possible. This might be through an extension of the study, a compassionate use agreement, or a new trial. However, this isn’t always possible, and there is no guarantee that the treatment can continue
  16. Blue illustration of a hand holding a heart on a white background

    We know it can be upsetting or worrying when your research journey ends, whether planned or unexpected, and we will support you with the next steps as you move out of research. At every stage, we do our best to work with you to find an outcome that is right for you.

For more information please speak to your clinical team.

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