Call for nurse-led research on annual health checks for people with a learning disability
The RCN Foundation has announced funding for a nurse-led research study to analyse and evaluate nationally the impact of the annual health check for people with a learning disability.
In addition, the research will investigate how far the checks go to reduce health inequalities and improve health related quality of life outcomes for people with a learning disability across the UK.
The output of this research will be a national, evidence-based model for the annual health check which makes best use of digital technologies for the assessment, record keeping and communication of need.
Additionally, the research will provide recommendations for the education, training, and development needs of those undertaking the health checks to ensure appropriate, effective and timely escalation based upon the results of the assessment.
The RCN Foundation's Inclusive Health - Enhancing the lives of individuals with learning disabilities grant-making programme provides grants to support nurse-led research and professional development to address health inequalities and improve health related quality of life outcomes for individuals with lived experience of a learning disability.
Annual health checks aim to reduce health inequalities experienced by people with a learning disability (NHSE, 2023).
As part of the co-design approach to the Inclusive Health programme and having listened and learnt from individuals with a learning disability, there is a significant variation relating to the implementation of annual health checks across the UK.
In general, individuals from England report few if any issues accessing their annual health check by their GP or a nurse in the surgery.
However, individuals living in other areas of the UK described a different experience with many not receiving any annual health check.
The research will aim to identify the most effective, evidence-based model for the annual check-up, based upon a comprehensive analysis and evaluation of the models currently in use and consider how digital technologies can be used to support the assessment.
The RCN Foundation is seeking applications from organisations, with up to £30,000 available in funding.
The study should aim to start in late Spring 2025 and finish in 2026 (up to 12 months). The voice and lived experience of individuals with a learning disability is central to the study and should include consultation with nurses, nursing associates, and healthcare support workers caring for individuals with a learning disability working across health and social care settings across the four countries of the UK.
For more information and to apply for this funding call, please download the call document. Completed proposals should be submitted by email to: grants@rcnfoundation.org.uk.
Applications close at 5pm on Friday, February 21. Should you have any questions about this funding call, please contact Dr Sarah McGloin, Head of Grants and Impact or email the team at grants@rcnfoundation.org.uk.