University of Oxford’s Centre for Research Equity Launches Historic Partnership to Advance Health Equity in Northern Ireland

A new partnership has been launched between the University of Oxford’s Centre for Research Equity and Northern Ireland’s Health and Social Care Research and Development Division, supported by the Department of Health. Northern Ireland is the first UK region to form such a collaboration. The aim is to improve health outcomes, reduce disparities and ensure research reflects the needs of all communities.

The initiative brings together patient advocates, clinicians, academics, government leaders and health agencies to create a long-term, inclusive approach to research. Speakers including Health Minister Mike Nesbitt, Professor Cathy Harrison, Professor Ian Young, Professor Mahendra Patel, Professor Richard Hobbs and Dr Janice Baillie stressed the importance of equity in research, the lessons learned from COVID-19 and the need for better representation of underserved communities.

The collaboration will shape the future NI Research and Development strategy, strengthen community engagement and improve access to clinical research across the region. Participants emphasised that this is a sustained commitment rather than a one-off project. Portraits of NI research participants were also displayed at the launch event.

Overall, the partnership is positioned as a significant step towards reducing health inequalities and ensuring that future healthcare advances benefit every community in Northern Ireland.