National Institute for Health Research
The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) has been established by the Department of Health to deliver the Government's R&D strategy 'Best Research for Best Health'. The strategy sets out the direction for NHS research that will build a vibrant and world-class research environment in England.
The goal of the NIHR is to create a health research system in which the NHS supports outstanding individuals, working in world class facilities, conducting leading edge research focused on the needs of patients and the public. The NHS reputation for international excellence is growing as it gains recognition for being the preferred host for collaborative and multi-centred research in the public interest in partnership with and for industry. This will benefit patients, society, the NHS and all our stakeholders.
The Director of the NIHR is Professor Sally C. Davies, Director General of Research and Development at the Department of Health. The NIHR is a virtual organisation that provides the framework for the Department of Health to work with key partners involved in the different elements of NHS research.
An Advisory Board provides strategic advice on the direction, implementation and management of the research programmes. The Board is Advisory because decisions affecting the NIHR can only be made by the Secretary of State for Health. The Advisory Board meets on a regular basis to provide advice to the Secretary of State through the Director General of Research and Development who chairs the meetings.
The annual budget for the NIHR incorporates all previously existing funds for NHS research in England. The budget also incorporate NHS funding that supports clinical research and academics.
The NIHR is the main sponsor of the CPSSQ.