Gaining approval for research in health and social care in the UK

Gaining ethical approval can be an intimidating process, both for new and experienced researchers alike. This paper examines contemporary issues arising from the implementation of the UK Research Governance Framework for Health and Social Care [Department of Health, 2003. The Research Governance Framework for Health and Social Care. second ed. (Autumn 2003 DRAFT). Available from: ] and places these within the context of research that was undertaken during the 20th century to explain the inclusion of such safeguards. The implications for nurses wishing to undertake small research projects follow, and the paper concludes by presenting a strategy that will help potential researchers through the process of obtaining successful approval