A nationwide initiative to increase nursing and midwifery research leadership: overview of year one programme development, implementation and evaluation

Abstract

Aims and objectives To report on the development, implementation and evaluation of the first year of the National Institute for Health Research 70@70 Senior Nurse Research Leader Programme. Background Internationally, there is a lack of nursing and midwifery research and policy contribution to healthcare sectors. To address this, funding was obtained for a Senior Nurse and Midwife Research Leader Programme in England. The programme aimed to increase nursing and midwifery research capacity and capability and support the development of future research leaders. Design The programme had three phases: development, implementation and evaluation. The cohort study’s evaluation phase consisted of a survey and qualitative written feedback. Methods An online survey was sent to cohort members (n=66). Quantitative survey data was analysed in Survey Monkey. Written feedback asked cohort members to summarise their activities and any challenges. Data was thematically analysed. The ‘Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology’ reporting checklist was used. Results Thirty‐nine (59%) cohort members responded to the survey. Responders valued being part of a network (46%), having protected time (22%) and having workplace autonomy (13%). Challenges reported included difficulties accessing online resources (32%), lack of collaborative opportunities (17%) and organisational barriers (10%). Fifty‐six (85%) cohort members submitted the written report. The main themes were ‘relationship and profile building’, ‘developing capability and capacity’, ‘developing the workforce’, ‘patient and public involvement and engagement’ and ‘quality improvement’. Conclusions The 70@70 programme has increased the research profile of the nursing and midwifery professions at a local and national level. International healthcare systems can learn from this, by considering optimal ways to provide nurses and midwives with the tools, resources and confidence to actively contribute to research policy and practice. Relevance to Clinical Practice: The initiatives undertaken through year 1 of the programme have created a platform through which research can be incorporated into clinical practice, education and teaching.