NHS Receives £47.8m Boost to Expand Clinical Trial Capacity

The National Health Service (NHS) has secured £47.8 million in funding from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) to strengthen its ability to conduct high-quality clinical trials across the United Kingdom. The funding forms part of the government’s effort to accelerate clinical research through the Voluntary Branded Medicines Pricing, Access and Growth (VPAG) programme.

The investment will provide essential research equipment to 51 NHS Trusts and 79 primary care organisations in England. Planned resources include diagnostic kits, ECG machines, advanced scanners and mobile research vans, alongside upgrades to research facilities through refurbishments and modular units.

Around 60% of the funding has been allocated to primary care organisations to help bring commercial clinical trials closer to local communities. According to the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry, the initiative could improve patient access to research opportunities after participation in UK industry clinical trials declined significantly in recent years.

08-03-2026