A multi-professional approach to assessing research readiness in a large NHS Trust

Background: The Self-assessment of Organisational Readiness Tool (SORT) allows NHS organisations to evaluate current positions in research readiness. Here we report the experience of using this tool in a large research-active NHS Trust. Method: The scope of the SORT was expanded to include nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, pharmacists and healthcare scientists for a comprehensive assessment of organisational research readiness. Using a collective participatory reflective approach, a Trust-wide working group of colleagues representing each of the organisational directorates sought out and collated evidence that was amalgamated to provide an organisational overview. Results: The SORT can be used to gain an organisational overview of research readiness; however, difficulties emerge in assigning organisation-wide scores in an organisation with multiple professional groups and specialities involved in and contributing to research. Conclusion: Undertaking the SORT assessment and sharing results raised the profile of research healthcare professionals and supported senior leaders to prioritise future work. Using a collective reflective approach offered leaders meaningful insights into the organisation’s readiness to support research and highlighted areas for improvement. Active engagement and understanding of the scoring criteria were essential to maximise the value derived from this project.