Clinical research is becoming a more accessible healthcare option in the UK — not just for rare diseases or specialist hospitals, but for everyday conditions like diabetes, asthma, and obesity.
Across the country, thousands of trials run every year, offering eligible participants access to investigative medications and study-related care. Some studies also offer reimbursement for time and travel, helping make participation possible for more people.
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a regulated study that tests investigative medications, medical devices, or approaches to care. Every drug that’s available on the NHS, from antibiotics to diabetes meds, went through a clinical trial before it was approved for widespread use.
Trials run in phases. Early-phase studies focus on safety and dosage, while later stages test whether new medicines or devices work in larger groups. Some trials need people with specific conditions, while others, like vaccine studies, look for healthy volunteers.
Taking part usually means you’ll receive the study medication, attend a series of appointments, and complete short questionnaires or assessments.
Why do people join clinical trials?
People join trials for different reasons. Some are interested in contributing to medical progress, others are looking for more structure or support in managing their condition. Some trials also offer reimbursement to help with costs like travel or time off work.
If you’re considering participating in a paid clinical trial, understanding these motivations can help you to decide whether taking part aligns with your personal goals and is the right choice for you.
What kinds of trials are available?
There are clinical research studies across almost every condition you can think of, but the most common are those that commonly affect a wide range of people. If you’re looking for clinical studies near you, keep an eye out for trials in these therapeutic areas:
Obesity clinical trials
With the demand for weight loss medication growing fast, researchers are running more obesity trials in the UK than ever before, particularly for GLP-1 medications like semaglutide.
Diabetes clinical trials
The World Health Organisation estimates that over 800 million people around the world suffer from diabetes, which makes it a popular target for new drugs. Diabetes trials typically focus on improving blood sugar control, preventing complications, or testing novel delivery systems (like oral GLP-1s or smart insulin pens) or monitoring devices.
Respiratory clinical trials
Respiratory diseases are becoming more prevalent, which leads to an increase in clinical trials for asthma and conditions like COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Individuals with common respiratory conditions may be eligible for research studies evaluating new inhalers, treatments, or monitoring tools.
Women’s health clinical trials
From endometriosis to menopause-related symptoms, studies into Women’s Health help develop a better understanding of the conditions that disproportionately impact women and can be instrumental in testing new treatments for them.
Vaccine clinical trials
Healthy participants play a crucial role in vaccine research. These studies are critical in developing and refining vaccines for conditions such as influenza, COVID-19, and RSV.
Do I need a GP referral to take part in clinical trials?
Participating in clinical trials does not require a GP or specialist referral. As a starting point, potential participants will be asked to complete a quick online prescreening form to check eligibility. If you qualify, clinic staff will then follow up with more detailed information.
There’s no obligation to continue in a trial, and potential participants are encouraged to ask questions and take the time to decide whether joining a trial feels like the right choice for them.
Are trials safe?
Safety and ethics are top priorities for clinical trials, which are overseen by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). All research studies go through ethical reviews to ensure participant safety, transparent communication, and medical integrity. Participation is always voluntary, and participants can leave at any time.
Where are trials happening?
Velocity Clinical Research operates dedicated research centres across the country, with staff trained to support participants from all walks of life. If you’re in a city or town, there’s a good chance you’re near a trial site, and we are actively increasing our footprint in more rural areas, as well.
Our studies run year-round, and we’re always recruiting for different types of research. You can use your postcode to search for studies near you, and if we don’t have a suitable trial now, you can opt in to hear when new research studies launch in your area.
Why choose Velocity?
As the largest integrated clinical trials network, Velocity Clinical Research has helped tens of thousands of participants access study-related care in supportive research environments. When you take part in a study with Velocity, you’re not just joining a trial; you’re joining a network designed around participants. That means clear communication, flexible scheduling, and healthcare professionals who take the time to listen to you.
Clinical research is for everyone
Whether you’re wondering how to take part in a clinical trial, exploring new ways to manage your health, or want to contribute to something bigger, now’s the time to explore your options. Check your eligibility today.
