A multi-professional approach to assessing research readiness in a large NHS Trust
File(s)
Published online version
Author(s)
Pluess-Hall, Helen
Manning, Nicola
Sriram, Vimal
Type
Journal Article
Abstract
Background The Self-assessment of Organisational Readiness Tool (SORT) allows NHS organisations to evaluate current positions in research readiness. Here we report the experience of using this tool in a large research-active NHS Trust.
Method The scope of the SORT was expanded to include nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, pharmacists and healthcare scientists for a comprehensive assessment of organisational research readiness. Using a collective participatory reflective approach, a Trust-wide working group of colleagues representing each of the organisational directorates sought out and collated evidence that was amalgamated to provide an organisational overview.
Results The SORT can be used to gain an organisational overview of research readiness; however, difficulties emerge in assigning organisation-wide scores in an organisation with multiple professional groups and specialities involved in and contributing to research.
Conclusion Undertaking the SORT assessment and sharing results raised the profile of research healthcare professionals and supported senior leaders to prioritise future work. Using a collective reflective approach offered leaders meaningful insights into the organisation’s readiness to support research and highlighted areas for improvement. Active engagement and understanding of the scoring criteria were essential to maximise the value derived from this project.
Method The scope of the SORT was expanded to include nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, pharmacists and healthcare scientists for a comprehensive assessment of organisational research readiness. Using a collective participatory reflective approach, a Trust-wide working group of colleagues representing each of the organisational directorates sought out and collated evidence that was amalgamated to provide an organisational overview.
Results The SORT can be used to gain an organisational overview of research readiness; however, difficulties emerge in assigning organisation-wide scores in an organisation with multiple professional groups and specialities involved in and contributing to research.
Conclusion Undertaking the SORT assessment and sharing results raised the profile of research healthcare professionals and supported senior leaders to prioritise future work. Using a collective reflective approach offered leaders meaningful insights into the organisation’s readiness to support research and highlighted areas for improvement. Active engagement and understanding of the scoring criteria were essential to maximise the value derived from this project.
Date Issued
2026-02-18
Date Acceptance
2026-01-28
Citation
BMJ Leader, 2026
ISSN
2398-631X
Publisher
BMJ Publishing Group
Journal / Book Title
BMJ Leader
Copyright Statement
© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2026. Re-use permitted under CC BY. Published by BMJ Group.
License URL
Publication Status
Published online
Date Publish Online
2026-02-18