Feedback on UCLH’s Research Open Day shows high levels of public satisfaction and engagement.
Figures analysed in the month after the event showed 93% of visitors ‘strongly agreed’ they enjoyed the day, with 67% saying they now know more about research.
54% said they are now more likely to take part in research.
UCL BioResource, a panel of volunteers who have agreed to take part in future research, had 30 people sign up. Follow-up to collect blood samples from these participants is now underway.
The open event showcases the latest research at UCLH and UCL, and aims to get the public engaged and involved in medical research.
In 2018, it was combined with celebrations for the NHS’s 70th birthday.
In feedback, visitors said they would like to see the annual event, which has grown each year, run more often.
Professor Bryan Williams, Director of Research at UCLH, said: ‘There was a real buzz on the day and it’s fantastic to see feedback reflect just how much people enjoyed the event. It’s a testament to everyone at UCLH who helped run the event.’
Planning will soon get underway for the 2019 open day.
2018 Research Open Day in numbers
93% of people ‘strongly agreed’ when asked if they enjoyed the day.
72% said they know more about research as a result of the event.
59% said they are now more likely to take part in research.
The day hosted 48 research stalls from 31 research teams, 2 National Institute for Health Research Networks and 6 patient care and hospital teams.
67 people went on 12 tours of the medical physics department, proton beam therapy construction site, physiotherapy facilities and the UCH co-ordination centre.
60 students from 4 schools attended 7 school tours. 5 young researchers from a range of specialties gave talks to students.
43 people entered a prize draw to win a FitBit and Amazon Echo.
