Our Research Ethics Committee members help facilitate ethical research for some of the biggest challenges in health and social care, including cancer, dementia and COVID-19.
They meet virtually via Zoom, where members can join from the clinic, the office or their home.
We have 64 Research Ethics Committees in England and our members are encouraged to join a committee that meets at a time to suit them.
Nirav Shah – REC Member Nottingham 2.Being a lay member has been an invaluable experience. I have a keen interest in learning about the advancements in medicine, as I was born with a muscle wasting condition which does not have a cure as of yet.
It’s provided me with a platform to apply the skills I have from studying a law degree and the opportunity to work alongside colleagues with expert knowledge in medical and non-medical fields.
Stephanie Ellis, Hampstead Research Ethics Committee Chair.My journey into research ethics began more than 30 years ago. Being a member keeps my mind active - I never stop learning about different conditions and new treatments. You don’t need any technical knowledge, just a sense of what matters!
You can read more about Stephanie’s experience in her blog post.
Carrie Ridley, Chair of Brighton and Sussex Research Ethics Committee.Committee meetings are 10 times per year which fits in with my busy lifestyle, as a mother of two young boys and a full-time nurse working in an acute NHS Trust studying part-time for my MSc.
Lauren Shelmerdine, REC member Yorkshire and the Humber - Sheffield.Being part of the REC has allowed me to attend training sessions around the UK, expanding my knowledge of research ethics and practice at my own pace - while also giving me access to further opportunities to apply those skills.
Zoe Freeman - REC member Newcastle and North Tyneside 1 (NNT1) REC.I became a REC member because I have an interest in medical ethics and thought that being involved with a REC would be a good practical application of this interest. Being a member of a REC has allowed me to work with people from a range of disciplines and backgrounds.
Being a REC member offers more than just the chance to shape and improve health and social care research.
We provide regular training and support our members’ development, both professionally and personally.
Our members are kept up to date on the latest developments in research and ethics and members with a clinical background can earn Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points for their work with us.
Find out how you can become a REC member on our #StepForward webpage.