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Scotland events successfully engage researcher interest in key source of social care funding

Scotland events successfully engage researcher interest in key source of social care funding

Two recent events in Scotland organised by the NIHR Research Programme for Social Care (RPSC) have been hailed a success

Supported by NHS Research Scotland (NRS) and the Scottish Government’s Chief Scientist Office (CSO), the RPSC funds research which aims to “improve, expand and strengthen the way social care is provided for users of care services, carers, the social care workforce, and the public across the UK”.

The free in-person events held in Glasgow and Edinburgh in late October attracted a good turnout including researchers who are considering applying for funding in this area.

Around 40 attended Glasgow Caledonian University’s School of Social Work and Edinburgh School of Social and Political Science, part of the University of Edinburgh, to hear more about the opportunities available to them.

The programme encourages applications from researchers working across Scotland at all career stages and includes a sub-stream for early career researchers as well as funding for capacity building. 

The RPSC invites proposals from higher education institutions, charities, local authorities/governments and relevant third sector organisations.

Irina McLean, Health and Social Care Coordinator within NHS Research Scotland's Central Management Team (NRS-CMT), said: “Thank you to everyone who joined us for the RPSC events in Edinburgh and Glasgow.

“The clear message was that they both provided a unique opportunity to share ideas, connect with collaborators, and ultimately develop research that addresses the complexities of social care.

“To those who unfortunately couldn’t make it but would like to know more, please email me if you would like a copy of the slides presented at each event.”

One attendee thanked the organisers for putting on a “really informative event” and noted that “it can be really hard to make connections with other researchers as most health and care conferences have little social care representation”.

They added: “The time and effort made to put on an in-person event, with key figures and NIHR staff travelling to Scotland is impressive and so valuable to allow conversations that wouldn't happen otherwise.”

For anyone who missed an NIHR webinar on the RPSC which was held in September, the recording is now available.

Publication date: 10th December 2025

Author: NHS Research Scotland

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