The January speaker, Richard Austen, was a social worker for 30 years in the UK and in Tanzania, and he became interested in the value of medical research that would improve people’s lives. Since 2019, he has been a volunteer for the NHS National Institute for Health Research.

Do you know when the first recorded medical research took place? We didn’t, but in 1783, sailors were given various substances, including vinegar, to find out how to prevent scurvy.  Citrus fruits worked, transforming their lives.  In 1902 a dog successfully had a kidney transplant, paving the way for the first transplant for people in the 1950s.  In the present day, the Samaritans have trained 15 life prisoners in Erlestoke Prison to care for other inmates.

The NHS pays for research to improve better health outcomes.  Health inequalities are based on areas of affluence and deprivation.   The safety and cost effectiveness of medication is vital research affecting all of us. Identifying what is missing in research is also essential.  Women’s heart health and prison diet are two areas that need more research.

Richard’s role is to raise awareness of the need for volunteers, and to encourage people to take part in research projects.  More than a million people take part in Health and Social Care trials every year, but more are always needed.   Many participants volunteer to help research into their own disease/health issue.   Others just want to help improve health for all. For children 15 yrs and under, the website Decyphr On Line will lead to better and earlier treatment for young patients. Be Part of Research is a website that helps you to find and take part in relevant health and social care research in nearby locations.

Richard was happy to answer all the questions that arose during his talk so that much of it was conversational.

We welcomed one visitor and would be happy to see any visitors, not just from Edington.  At February’s meeting we will be choosing which National campaign we want to support.  Our votes count – wine & cheese will keep us going during our deliberations!