OUR GOAL IS THE DELIVERY OF INNOVATIVE CLINICAL TRIALS
iREACH Health is transforming Northern Ireland’s clinical research landscape by fostering a collaborative, forward-thinking ecosystem that supports cutting-edge studies and accelerates access to new treatments. Our goal is to make the region a destination of choice for clinical trials by addressing long-standing challenges and enabling impactful research.
By co-locating key stakeholders, streamlining trial processes, and integrating digital technologies, we are creating a Research-Positive Ecosystem—enhancing trial setup, delivery, and accessibility across the region.
Through education, outreach, and community partnerships, we want to increase public understanding of clinical research, dispel misconceptions, and enhance trial recruitment, ensuring equitable access and better health outcomes.
BY FOCUSING ON INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS, WE AIM TO:
CREATE A RESEARCH-POSITIVE ECOSYSTEM TO STREAMLINE CLINICAL TRIAL PROCESSES
iREACH Health will create a culture of collaboration to enhance Northern Ireland’s clinical research capabilities by co-locating key stakeholders to a single location. Through the integration of cutting-edge digital technologies, iREACH Health will reduce bottlenecks in trial setup, allowing for faster, more efficient trial initiation and execution.
PROVIDE STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES TO SUPPORT CLINICAL RESEARCH
Industry tenants will also be using the centre as a base to further clinical research and improve healthcare outcomes for the entire community. The Northern Ireland Clinical Research Facility, will relocate from the U floor of City Hospital to the iREACH Health innovation centre and will utilise the new space to expand on their current activities of delivering support and operational facilities for clinical research.
"I had never considered participating in a trial, but I was eager to contribute to the search for treatments that could benefit people with Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and any potential personal benefits would be a welcome bonus. The clinicians discussed the trial with me, which motivated my decision to take part. I'm grateful for the opportunity to be involved in the trial, and my experience has been great, with the research team always making me feel comfortable and at ease"
- NICRF Patient
ENHANCE CLINICAL TRIAL PARTICIPANT RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION
Clinical research transforms treatments and saves lives. iREACH Health will leverage advanced recruitment platforms and remote participation tools, expanding access to trials and addressing common barriers to enrollment.
SUPPORT CAREER PATHWAYS
iREACH Health will help build a sustainable workforce by providing clear career pathways and training for aspiring clinical academics and healthcare professionals, incorporating education, training, and mentoring programs in collaboration with industry to ensure the next generation of healthcare workers are well-equipped to lead research efforts.
BOOST ECONOMIC GROWTH FOR NORTHERN IRELAND
REACH Health will serve as a catalyst for Northern Ireland’s Life and Health Sciences sector, driving innovation, supporting job creation, and stimulating the local economy. The facility’s construction represents a major capital investment that will generate immediate employment and long-term economic benefits.
Through industry partnerships, training, and mentorship programmes, iREACH Health will help build a highly skilled workforce, offering enhanced career pathways for healthcare professionals, researchers, support staff, project managers, and specialists in data and digital technologies.
Its state-of-the-art facilities will support early-stage biotech and med-tech companies, increase research activity, and strengthen Northern Ireland’s capacity to attract and conduct leading national and international clinical trials.
By leveraging co-location and collaboration, iREACH Health will shape future skills needs, create new employment opportunities, and strengthen Northern Ireland’s position as a destination of choice for clinical research—delivering long-term productivity gains and meaningful benefits for the entire community.
DELIVER EXCELLENCE IN CARE THROUGH CLINICAL TRIALS
By partnering with key stakeholders and leveraging UK resources, iREACH Health will
- Strengthen Northern Ireland’s reputation for hosting national and multinational clinical trials
- Drive investigator-led research funding from major UK and global bodies
- Align research efforts with UK sector policies, tackling grand healthcare challenges
"My son has worn glasses from he was 4 years old, as is typical his prescription increased at every eye sight review. We were recommended to apply to take part in the trial in the hope of slowing the progression. From first contact the researcher was extremely lovely and reassuring. She provided all the relevant information to myself and my husband that put us at ease. My son is autistic and the trial staff have been so accommodating and encouraging and made him feel comfortable at every step!
He actually loved going in for his six monthly checks so he could see the research team and tell them about his latest adventures. They made the whole experience fun for him! We are so thankful for the hard work that CHAMP put in as well as the support throughout the process"- Parent of NICRF Patient
FOSTER INCLUSIVITY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Health inequalities in Northern Ireland significantly impact healthcare outcomes, with more deprived areas experiencing worse health conditions. According to the NI Health Inequalities Annual Report 2024, residents in more deprived areas face higher rates of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease, and mental health issues are more prevalent. Additionally, access to healthcare services is often limited, exacerbating these health disparities. The report highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to bridge the gap and improve health outcomes for all communities.
iREACH Health’s inclusive approach will prioritise community engagement and equitable participation in clinical research for all communities in Northern Ireland.
Participatory research groups will be established to address health inequalities and deliver diverse, representative trial recruitment through outreach and support programmes.
Outreach initiatives will expand public awareness and participation in clinical trials, emphasizing diversity, equity of access, and inclusion. Decentralised and home-based studies will broaden access to trials, while education initiatives will highlight career opportunities in clinical research, targeting underserved groups to foster a culture of inclusion and innovation in health and life sciences.