Identity guidelines
June 2012
Version 2.0
Contents
1
Introduction
About the NIHR
2
NIHR identity
Communications approach
The NIHR logotype
Typefaces
NIHR colour palette
Photographs and images
Using words
8
8
9
15
16
19
23
3
Applications
Websites
Publications
Publishing research findings
Press releases
Stationery
Signage Events and conferences
Merchandising
Advertising
Videos
26
27
34
41
43
46
50
52
58
59
61
4
Language, format and punctuation style guide
62
5
Communication protocol
Contacting Department of Health officials and Government ministers
Social media and digital engagement
Libel, defamation, copyright and data protection 70
70
71
72
6
Additional information for researchers
Acknowledging NIHR funding
73
73
7
Resources
76
8
Contacts
77
NIHR Identity Guidelines
ii
1
i
1
Introduction
The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) is a large, multi-faceted and nationally distributed
organisation. Together, NIHR people, facilities and systems represent the most integrated clinical research
system in the world, driving research from bench to bedside for the benefit of patients.
The NIHR receives investment from the Government and taxpayers and must, in return, provide the
confidence required for that investment to continue. One way of doing this is to maximise the awareness
and impact of the NIHR and its investments through consistent and correct use of the NIHR identity for
all communications.
The NIHR identity guidelines have been developed to ensure there is consistency for all communications
produced by the NIHR and to support everyone working within the NIHR when developing and issuing
communications. Everyone who works within the NIHR, as well as researchers who receive NIHR funding
and support, should use the guidelines.
Application will create unity and help build a stronger, more recognisable NIHR brand both within the
research community and with patients and the public, industry and charities.
The guidelines provide details on how to use the NIHR logo and design, as well as setting out how to
apply the guidelines in practice.
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
About the NIHR
The NIHR was established in April 2006 to provide the framework through which the Department
of Health can position, maintain and manage the research, research staff and research infrastructure
of the NHS in England as a national research facility.
Vision
To improve the health and wealth of the nation through research.
Mission
To maintain a health research system in which the NHS supports outstanding individuals working in
world-class facilities, conducting leading-edge research focused on the needs of patients and the public.
Our goals
●●
Establish the NHS as an internationally recognised centre of research excellence.
●●
Attract, develop and retain the best research professionals to conduct people-based research.
●●
Commission research focused on improving health and social care.
●●
Strengthen and streamline systems for research management and governance.
●●
Act as sound custodians of public money for the public good.
Strategic priorities
●●
●●
Transform research in the NHS.
Increase the volume of applied health research, and opportunities to participate in it, for the benefit
of patients and the public.
●●
Promote and protect the interests of patients and the public in health research.
●●
Drive faster translation of basic science discoveries into tangible benefits for patients.
●●
Develop and support the people who conduct and contribute to applied health research.
●●
Maximise the research potential of the NHS to contribute to the economic growth of the country
through the life-sciences industries.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
1
Principles and purpose
The NIHR is committed to health, public health and social care research focused on the needs of patients
and the public.
Our guiding principles are to be:
●●
transparent
●●
competitive
●●
high quality
●●
cost effective
●●
focused on delivery.
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
Structure
The NIHR manages its health research activities through four main work strands:
●●
NIHR Research: commissioning and funding research
●●
NIHR Infrastructure: providing the facilities and people for a thriving research environment
●●
NIHR Faculty: supporting the individuals carrying out and participating in research
●●
NIHR Systems: creating unified, streamlined and simple knowledge-management systems.
NIHR Structure as of May 2012
Integrated Academic Training Programme
The Dementias and Neurodegenerative
Diseases Research Network (DeNDRoN)
(x6 local networks)
Fellowships Programme
Leadership Support and
Development Programme†
Diabetes Research Network (DRN)
(x8 local networks)
Research Methods Programmes
Clinical Academic Training Programme for
Nurses, Midwives and Allied Health Professions
in partnership with the Chief Nursing Officer
NIHR
Trainees
Coordinating
Centre
Medicines for Children Research Network
(MCRN) (x6 local networks)
Mental Health Research Network
(MHRN) (x8 local networks)
Cancer Research Network (NCRN)
(x32 local networks)
Healthcare Scientists Programme, in partnership
with the Chief Scientific Officer
Clinical Trials Fellowships.
NIHR Central Commissioning Facility
Primary Care Research Network (PCRN)
(x8 local networks)
Stroke Research Network (SRN)
(x8 local networks)
Comprehensive Clinical Research
Network (CCRN) (x25 local networks)
Senior
Investigators
Investigators
Trainees
Knowledge Mobilisation Fellowships
Research Professorships
Associates
Patients and
Public
Biomedical Research Centres
(BRCs) (x11)
Biomedical Research Units (BRUs)
(x20)
Patient Safety & Service Quality
Research Centres
(x2 until 31 Jul 12)
Patient Safety Translational
Research Centres
(PSTRC) (x2 from 1 Aug 12)
Health Technology
Assessment (HTA)
Programme
Public Health Research
(PHR) Programme
Health Service &
Delivery Research
(HS&DR) Programme*
Technology Assessment
Review
Efficacy and Mechanism
Evaluation (EME)
Programme*
Horizon Scanning Centre
INVOLVE
NIHR Evaluation, Trials and
Studies Coordinating Centre
NIHR Central Commissioning
Facility
Translational Research Partnerships
(x2)
NIHR Central Commissioning
Facility
Centre for Reviews and
Dissemination
Research
Schools
NIHR Office for Clinical Research
Infrastructure
Infrastructure
Experimental Cancer Medicine
Centres (ECMCs) in England,
funded in partnership with
Cancer Research UK (x14)
NHS Trusts
Research
Clinical Research Facilities (CRFs)
in England joint funded by NIHR
and UK Clinical Research
Collaboration (x11, until 31 Aug 12)
Cochrane Review
Groups
UK Cochrane Centre
Universities
Research Programmes
Clinical Research Facilities (NCRFs)
for Experimental Medicine
(currently x4; x19 from 1 Sep 12)
Clinical Research Facilities, Centres and
Units
Clinical
Research
Networks
Faculty
NIHR Clinical Research Network
Coordinating Centre
Clinical Trials Units
(CTUs) (x21)**
Systems
Research for Patient Benefit Programme
Programme Grants for Applied Research
Research Information
Programme Development Grants
Research Governance
Invention for Innovation (i4i) Programme
Healthcare Technology Co-operatives
NIHR IS Function
UK Clinical Trials Gateway
Clinical Practice Research Datalink #
NIHR Research Support Services
Research Passport – Human Resource
Good Practice Scheme
Coordinated System for gaining NHS
Permission (NIHR CSP)
NIHR Collaborations for Leadership
in Applied Health Research and
Care (CLAHRCs) (x9)
School for Primary Care Research
School for Social Care Research
School for Public Health Research
Centre for Surgical Reconstruction
and Microbiology ~
Research Design Services (RDS)
(x10)
Legend:
NIHR Coordinating Centres
Partnership initiatives
NIHR Identity Guidelines
* Partnership Programme part funded by
the MRC and the NIHR
~ Joint funding initiative by the NIHR
and MoD.
** Joint support funding initiative by the
NIHR and MRC
# In partnership with the MHRA
†
Delivered by the Ashridge Business
School
3
Research programmes
The NIHR has a comprehensive range of research programmes in both commissioned and response
mode. They offer a focused source of funding for researchers with the aim of improving health and
care by providing evidence to inform clinical professionals, NHS managers, patients and the public,
and where appropriate, policy makers. The NIHR’s research programmes are managed through two
of the co‑ordinating centres.
●●
●●
The NIHR Evaluation, Trials and Studies Coordinating Centre (NETSCC) manages:
–– Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Programme
–– Public Health Research (PHR) Programme
–– Health Services and Delivery Research (HS&DR) Programme
–– Efficacy and Mechanism Evaluation (EME) Programme
–– Systematic Review programmes – Cochrane Review Groups and Technology Assessment Review
Teams.
The NIHR Central Commissioning Facility (CCF) manages:
–– Programme Grants for Applied Research (PGfAR)
–– Research for Patient Benefit (RfPB) Programme
–– Invention for Innovation (i4i) Programme.
Research schools
The NIHR supports national research schools that bring together top academics and practitioners to
conduct leading-edge research to benefit patients. The purpose of the schools is to increase the evidence
base for effective practice by: conducting research to increase the volume and quality of reliable and
relevant evidence; and creating an environment where first-class applied research can thrive, focused
on the needs of the public.
●●
School for Primary Care Research (SPCR)
●●
School for Social Care Research (SSCR)
●●
School for Public Health Research (SPHR).
Centre for Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology
The NIHR brings both military and civilian trauma surgeons and scientists together to share advanced
clinical practice in the battlefield and innovation in medical research to benefit all trauma patients in the
NHS at an early stage of injury. The Centre for Surgical Reconstruction and Microbiology (CSRM) is a
partnership between the NIHR, the Ministry of Defence, University Hospitals Birmingham and the
University of Birmingham.
Research Design Service
The Research Design Service (RDS) provides support for health and social care researchers to develop and
design high-quality research proposals for submission to NIHR and other national, peer-reviewed
competitions.
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
Infrastructure
The NIHR provides the support and facilities the NHS needs for first-class research by funding a range
of infrastructure facilities. NIHR infrastructure includes the following:
●●
●●
The NIHR Central Commissioning Facility manages:
–– Biomedical Research Centres (BRCs)
–– Biomedical Research Units (BRUs)
–– Patient Safety Translational Research Centres (PSTRCs)
–– Clinical Research Facilities (CRFs) for Experimental Medicine
–– Experimental Cancer Medicine Centres (ECMCs)
–– Collaborations for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care (CLAHRCs)
–– Healthcare Technology Co-operatives (HTCs)
–– Translational Research Partnerships (TRPs)
–– Dementia Translation Research Collaboration.
The NIHR Clinical Research Network led by its Coordinating Centre (CRNCC) supports the set-up and
timely delivery of commercial and non-commercial studies in the NHS in England. This includes advice
on study feasibility, streamlined NHS permissions and effective patient recruitment. The networks are:
–– Cancer (NCRN)
–– Stroke (SRN)
–– Mental Health (MHRN)
–– Diabetes (DRN)
–– Medicines for Children (MCRN)
–– Dementias and Neurodegenerative Diseases (DenDRoN)
–– Primary Care (PCRN)
–– Comprehensive Clinical (CCRN).
Faculty
The NIHR Faculty aims to bring together and support the growing NIHR community of health research
professionals, including clinical and support staff from all relevant professional backgrounds. The NIHR
Faculty has four categories of membership: Senior Investigators, Investigators, Associates and Trainees.
The Faculty also provides a range of research training and career development programmes to provide
support for the academic training paths of all health care professionals and other key disciplines involved
in health and social care research.
The NIHR Trainees Coordinating Centre (TCC) manages:
●●
●●
Integrated Academic Training (IAT) Programme for Doctors and Dentists
Clinical Academic Training (CAT) Programme for Nurses, Midwives and Allied Health Professions in
partnership with the Chief Nursing Officer
●●
Healthcare Scientists (HS) Programme, in partnership with the Chief Scientific Officer
●●
Fellowships Programme
NIHR Identity Guidelines
5
●●
Research Methods Programme (RMP)
●●
Clinical Trials (CTs) Fellowships
●●
Knowledge Mobilisation (KM) Fellowships
●●
Research Professorships.
The Leadership Support and Development Programme (LS&DP), delivered by the Ashridge Business
School, provides support and development for leaders across NIHR, at different career stages.
Systems
The NIHR works with research partners to strengthen and streamline systems for research management
and governance through a number of initiatives:
●●
Coordinated System for gaining NHS Permission (CSP)
●●
Research Passport (RPs)
●●
Research Support Services (RSS)
●●
UK Clinical Trials Gateway (UKCTG)
●●
Information Systems, including the NIHR Portal
●●
Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD), in partnership with the Medicines and Healthcare products
Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Other
There are a number of other NIHR-funded initiatives:
●●
Horizon Scanning Centre (HSC)
●●
Centre for Reviews and Dissemination (CRD)
●●
UK Cochrane Centre, Cochrane Review Groups (CRGs)
●●
INVOLVE
●●
Office for Clinical Research Infrastructure (NOCRI).
Communications approval
Given the NIHR’s complex, multi-faceted, nationally distributed organisation, a communications structure
for dealing with approvals and liaison for communications between the many parts of the NIHR has been
developed and approved. The diagram on the following page illustrates NIHR communications approval
and liaison routes across the distributed structure and should be followed by communications teams
and individuals.
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
NIHR communications approval and liaison routes
NIHR communications approval and liaison routes
Department of Health
NIHR HSC
NIHR CRD
NIHR INVOLVE
NIHR ECMs
NETSCC
NIHR
CCF
NOCRI
NIHR
CRNCC
NIHR
IS
NIHR
TCC
CRUK
HTA
HS&DR
PHR
EME
TARs
CRGs
JLA PSP
BRCs
BRUs
PSTRCs
CLAHRCs
HTCs
CRFs
TRPs
RDS
RfPB
i4i
PGAR
NCRN
DenDRoN
SRN
MHRN
DRN
MCRN
PCRN
CCRN
IATP
CATP
HSP
RMP
CSP
RPs
RSS
UKCTG
Portal
CPRD
CT Fellowships
KM Fellowships
Professorships
MHRA
L&DP
ABS
CLRNs
SPCR
SSCR
SPHR
SRMRC
NIHR Identity Guidelines
MoD
7
2
NIHR identity
Communications approach
The NIHR identity has been approved as part of the NHS brand, one of the most recognisable and trusted
brands in the country. The NHS brand resonates strongly with patients and the public and the use of it by
the NIHR provides reassurance that our work is credible, ethical and will protect their rights and dignity.
New brands cannot compete and so all NIHR-funded communications must comply with these
guidelines, developed under the auspices of the NHS. Own brands are not permitted.
NIHR communications must reflect NHS values of caring for the health of the nation and of
professionalism, efficiency, transparency, value for money, equality and, increasingly, choice and
responsiveness.
All NIHR communications must be:
●●
cost effective
●●
clear, open and honest
●●
written in plain, straightforward English that is easy to understand
●●
accessible to a wide audience
●●
up to date, accurate and consistent
●●
inclusive and not discriminate against any individual or group of people
●●
meet the needs of our stakeholders.
Any type of communication issued by any part of the NIHR should be able to demonstrate that
it provides good value for money.
8
NIHR Identity Guidelines
The NIHR logotype
The NIHR logotype has been created using the NHS brand guidelines and is approved for NIHR use by the
NHS Branding Team.
HS
ls
st
urs
ed-
National Institute for Health Research Identity guidelines Version 1.0 March 2008
The NHS national lozenge is the cornerstone of the NHS brand. It is the signature of the NHS and signals
NHS ownership of a service or message. It must be used consistently and correctly.
All organisations that serve the NHS have logotypes based around the NHS national lozenge.
The NIHR logotype is made up of:
se
●●
the NHS national lozenge
●●
the name: National Institute for Health Research.
8
The NIHR logotype is the single most important element of the NIHR identity.
In any application, the NIHR logotype should always be legible, prominent and unobstructed.
This is essential to strengthen the identity.
The NHS branding policy does not permit individual NIHR initiative logos to be created
or used.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
9
op
e, for
y be
Exception:
Communications reporting research findings should not include the NIHR logotype in the top right
corner. Please see the Applications section (p26) for detailed guidance.
Exclusion zone
For further
information
onkept
recommended
sizes
Recommended
The ‘exclusion sizes
zone’ is the area around the logo that
should
always be
clear.
visit the NHS identity guidelines website; please
On standard size formats (A4, A5, etc) the NHS
see
for thenothing
website should
address.ever appear inside
To
ensure
that
the
NIHR
logotype
remains
clear
andpage
has 29
impact,
logo size should be as follows (where X is the
the exclusion
height
of the NHSzone.
logo):No other graphic or typography should appear within it.
Version 1.0 March 2008
e
The NIHR logotype should be positioned in the top right corner of the page in all communications
‘owned’ or endorsed by the NIHR.
A4:This
X =clear
8.5mm
space (X) is proportional and is defined as the height of the NHS logo.
A3: X = 12.5mm
A5 and DL: X = 6mm
NIHR logotype
Business
cards: X =illustrating
4.25mm the exclusion zone.
fig.1
X
X
X
he
t the
ar
e
NIHR
X
ty,
n the
in
exclusion zone
fig.2
X
4.25mm
8.5mm
National Institute for Health Research Identity guidelines
HS
any
Position
9
10
NIHR Identity Guidelines
NIHR logotype sizes
On standard size formats, such as A4, A5, DL and others, the NIHR logotype size should be as follows
(where X is the height of the NHS logo):
A4: X = 8.5mm
A3: X = 12.5mm
Recommended
A5 and DL: X sizes
= 6mm
On standard size formats (A4, A5, etc) the NHS logo
Business
cards:
X = 4.25mm
size
should be
as follows
Recommended
sizes (where X is the height of
the
NHS logo):
On standard
size formats (A4, A5, etc) the NHS logo
To ensure visibility, readability and accessibility, the NIHR logotype should never be used smaller than the
size used on business cards.
size should be as follows (where X is the height of
the NHS logo):
Recommended sizes
X
X
A4
A3
A2
210x297mm
297x420mm
420x594mm
X = A4
8.5mm
X = 12.5mm
A3
X = A2
17mm
210x297mm
297x420mm
420x594mm
X = 8.5mm
X = 12.5mm
X = 17mm
Business
card
A6
DL
A5
Business
X=
X 4.25mm
= card
4.25mm
105x148mm
99x210mm
148x210mm
X = 5mm
A6
X = 6mm
DL
X = 6mm
A5
X=
4.25mm
Further
105x148mm
X =using
5mm
for
99x210mm
X = 6mm
logotype
guidance
the NIHR
includes guidance for stationery (p46).
210x210mm
X = 8.5mm
210x210mm
148x210mm
can be
found Xin= 6mm
the Applications
= 8.5mmwhich
sectionX(p26),
NIHR Identity Guidelines
11
The NHS Identity Guidelines
7
The NHS Identity Guidelines
7
NIHR logotype files
The NIHR logotype must never be recreated or altered in any way. Only the original digital graphic files of
the NIHR logotype should be used.
The NIHR logotype files are supplied in colour, in white, and in black. The colour files have the letters
‘Col’ towards the end of the file name, the white files have ‘Rev’, and the black files have ‘Blk’.
The colour and black logotypes are supplied in three file formats: JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts
Group), EPS (Encapsulated PostScript) and TIFF (Tagged Image File Format). The white logotype is
available only in the EPS format. The file formats are independent of fonts, and do not require the
Frutiger fonts to be installed on your computer.
These files are supplied as stand-alone images, which are not designed to be opened by double-clicking
on the icon. They should be imported into applications (e.g. Microsoft Word) and then resized and
positioned as required.
The logotypes available to download are the correct size for use on an A4 document. See NIHR logotype
sizes (p11).
Using the files
JPEG files are for general office use and can be imported into most computer programs, such as
Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel. JPEG files will degrade if enlarged, whereas reducing them is fine.
EPS are high-resolution files used for the production of high-quality artwork for print and design
programs such as QuarkXpress, Adobe InDesign or Adobe Illustrator. They are vector format files, which
means that they can be increased in size without loss of definition. EPS files should therefore be used if
a large logotype is needed. The white EPS file has a transparent background and may be used in page
layout programs where a reversed-out logotype is required.
TIFF files are used for producing graphics, in publications and online.
Instructions on how to import JPEG files into Microsoft Office applications
●●
From the menu bar at the top of your computer application (e.g. Microsoft Word), select INSERT >
PICTURE > FROM FILE. Then navigate to the folder or disc where the logos are stored, and select the
desired file for insertion.
12
NIHR Identity Guidelines
●●
To change the size of the image, make sure the logo is selected by clicking on it. Then go to the menu
bar at the top of your computer application and select FORMAT > PICTURE > SIZE and change the size.
Please ensure that ‘Lock aspect ratio’ and ‘Relative to original picture size’ are both
selected. This will guarantee that the NIHR logotype is not distorted in any way.
Where do I get the NIHR logotype files?
The NIHR logotype files are available to be downloaded for use from the NIHR Portal or via the
co‑ordinating centres.
See Resources section (p76).
Remember, the NIHR logotype is a registered trademark. If you are in any doubt about its use, wish to
use the logotype in any other way, are downloading it to pass on to a third party, or have any other
questions, please contact us for advice. See the Contacts section (p77).
Using the NIHR logotype with non-NHS partner brands
The NIHR works with many other organisations that carry out health research. When working in
partnership, the NIHR logotype should be in equal proportion to the logo of its partners.
When the NIHR is leading, the logotype should be positioned in the top right-hand corner of
communications, and the partner logo on the left-hand side.
Where the NIHR is a secondary partner, the NIHR logotype can be positioned in the bottom right corner.
When working with several partners, all the logos can be placed either at the top or at the bottom
of the publication.
Further guidance on how to use the NIHR logotype when working with partner organisations can
be found in the Applications section (p26).
3
3
Frontiers in Transplantation:
Clinical Excellence Through Innovation
8-9 September 2011
Biomedical Research Centre, 16th Floor, Guy’s Hospital, London
A two-day course for scientists and clinicians interested in translational
transplantation biology
This course will cover recent developments in basic transplantation immunology
alongside the latest cutting-edge clinical research. We will focus on the ‘bench-tobedside’ strategies being pursued within the MRC Centre for Transplantation at
Guy’s Hospital and King’s College London.
SPEAKERS:
Dr Varuna Aluvihare (KCL)
Professor Giovanna Lombardi (KCL)
Professor Anthony Dorling (KCL)
Professor Graham Lord (KCL)
Mr Martin Drage (GSTT)
Mr Nizam Mamode (GSTT)
Professor Peter Friend (University of
Oxford)
Professor Randolph Noelle (KCL)
Professor Bernhard Hering (University of
Minnesota, USA)
Dr Maria Hernandez-Fuentes (KCL)
Professor Robert Lechler (KCL)
Professor Steven Sacks (KCL)
Dr Richard Smith (KCL)
Dr Timothy Tree (KCL)
Guidance for the Tripartite
model Clinical Trial Agreement
for Pharmaceutical and Biopharmaceutical
Industry sponsored research
in NHS Hospitals managed by
Contract Research Organisations
(CRO mCTA, 2011 version)
Dr Robert Vaughan (KCL)
For more information on the programme, fees or to register your interest,
please contact: mrccentre@kcl.ac.uk
Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and King’s
College London’s comprehensive Biomedical Research Centre
Working together to deliver better health through research
NIHR Identity Guidelines
13
Using the NIHR logotype with other NHS
organisations
3
Reducing bureaucracy
The model Clinical Investigation Agreement
(mCIA) is a government-led initiative
to reduce bureaucracy in study set-up
procedures. Produced by the UK health
departments with the Association of British
Healthcare Industries (ABHI), the mCIA is
endorsed by representatives of industry, NHS
trusts and universities. The mCIA should be
used in unmodified format in clinical research
of medical technologies, sponsored and
contracted by industry.
NHS branding policy states that the NHS national lozenge may
appear only once on a single page. This ensures that the
impact of the NHS logo is not diluted by duplication.
The mCIA is designed specifically to:
• speed up the initiation of studies and
reduce costs by avoiding the need for
site-by-site review and the negotiation
of individual clinical investigation
agreements;
Our commitment to industry
The Healthcare Industries Task Force (HITF)
was an important initiative between the UK
government and the healthcare products
industry. HITF recommended building R&D
capacity and streamlining the regulatory and
governance processes involved in research
conducted in the NHS, in order to improve
the environment for the medical technology
and healthcare industries.
This environment of partnership working
continues and cements our commitment to
working closely with the medical technology
industry to listen to concerns and to deliver
research services that meet the needs of both
the global and national industry providers.
Improving the UK
clinical research
environment for the
medical technology
industry
– delivering clinical research services
– meeting your needs
When the NIHR leads on joint publications with other NHS
national organisations, such as the Health Research Authority,
the NIHR logotype should be positioned in the top right corner
of the front cover, and a relationship statement on the
bottom; the partner logos can be placed either inside or
on the back cover of the publication.
• provide assurance that appropriate
arrangements are in place to protect both
patients and the trusts responsible for
their care; and
• be used only in contract clinical
investigations carried out in NHS hospitals.
The mCIA is not designed for use in
collaborative clinical research. Model
agreements for use in collaborative
clinical research are being considered for
development.
www.nihr.ac.uk/industry_model_clinical_
trials_agreement.aspx
This leaflet has been produced jointly by the National
Institute for Health Research, the Medicines and Healthcare
products Regulatory Agency and the National Research Ethics
Service. It explains recent changes in the UK health research
environment that will benefit the medical technologies
industries.
© Crown copyright 2008
291474 1p 1k November 08 (xxx)
Produced by COI for the Department of Health
www.dh.gov.uk/publications
Back cover
Front cover
NIHR research initiatives hosted in NHS organisations cannot use the logo of their host NHS organisation
on the same page as the NIHR logotype. Detailed guidance on how to use the NIHR logotype when
working with NHS organisations can be found in the Applications section (p26).
Dos and don’ts
Do:
Don’t:
✔✔make sure you use the NIHR logotype consistently
✘✘ alter the NIHR logotype in any way
✘✘ add other graphics or typography
and correctly
✔✔only use original digital graphic files and import them
into the software application, e.g. Microsoft Word
✔✔keep the exclusion zone clear
✔✔use the right size NIHR logotype
✔✔ensure the NIHR logotype is in equal proportion to the
within the exclusion zone
✘✘ use the NIHR logotype with
another NHS logo on a single page
✘✘ create new logos.
logos of research partners.
Do not add any typography, including
initiative names, under the NIHR logotype.
Placement of NIHR logotype on publications,
top right corner.
3
Clinical Academic Training Pathway
for Nurses, Midwives and Allied
Health Professions
Clinical academic training supports clinical academic
careers for nurses, midwives and allied health
professionals under this scheme established in
collaboration with the Chief Nursing Officer for
England, the Economic and Social Research Council
and the Higher Education Funding Council for
England. The Clinical Academic Training Pathway
offers four levels of integrated training:
• Masters in Research (MRes) or Masters
in Clinical Research
• Doctorate Research (not professional doctorate)
• Clinical Lectureship
• Senior Academic Clinical Lectureship.
School for Social Care Research
Embedding
Health Research
Supporting the
future of social care
through
research
NIHR Research Methods Programme
The NIHR supports the development of individuals
with expertise in statistics, clinical trials, health
economics, operational research and modelling
through its Research Methods Programme. This
has involved providing funding to academic
departments with research expertise in statistics or
economics to undertake research relevant to the
NIHR. The NIHR also supports talented individuals
with interests in research methods through its
Research Methods Fellowships and Internships
scheme. Capacity development in research methods
is also supported by the NIHR through its funding
of Masters Studentships in Health Economics and
Medical Statistics.
Annual Report 2010/11
National Institute for Health Research
Annual Report 2009/10
14
8
3
Improving the evidence base for
adult social care practice in England
The National Institute for Health Research
The NIHR is building a vibrant and world-class
research environment in England. It is:
• Establishing the NHS as an internationally
recognised centre of research excellence
• Commissioning research focused on improving
health and social care
• Attracting, developing and retaining the
best research professionals to carry out
people-based research
• Strengthening and streamlining systems
for research
• Acting as a sound custodian of public money
for public good.
Visit the NIHR website at www.nihr.ac.uk.
Contact Details for the NIHR TCC
NIHR Trainees Coordinating Centre
Leeds Innovation Centre
103 Clarendon Road
Leeds LS2 9DF
Tel: 0113 346 6260
Website: www.nihrtcc.nhs.uk
General Enquiries: nihrtcc@nihrtcc.org.uk
NIHR Fellowship Scheme:
nihrfellowshipenquiries@nihrtcc.org.uk
Integrated Academic Training:
iatenquiries@nccrcd.org.uk
Clinical Academic Training:
cat.fellowships@nihrtcc.org.uk
Clinical Academic Training Pathway
for Nurses, Midwives and Allied
Health Professions
Clinical academic training supports clinical academic
careers for nurses, midwives and allied health
professionals under this scheme established in
collaboration with the Chief Nursing Officer for
England, the Economic and Social Research Council
and the Higher Education Funding Council for
England. The Clinical Academic Training Pathway
offers four levels of integrated training:
• Masters in Research (MRes) or Masters
in Clinical Research
• Doctorate Research (not professional doctorate)
• Clinical Lectureship
• Senior Academic Clinical Lectureship.
NIHR Research Methods Programme
The NIHR supports the development of individuals
with expertise in statistics, clinical trials, health
economics, operational research and modelling
through its Research Methods Programme. This
has involved providing funding to academic
departments with research expertise in statistics or
economics to undertake research relevant to the
NIHR. The NIHR also supports talented individuals
with interests in research methods through its
Research Methods Fellowships and Internships
scheme. Capacity development in research methods
Building
capacity in the
is also supported by the NIHR through its funding
research
of Mastersworkforce
Studentships in Health Economics and
Medical Statistics.
Research Capacity
Development
8
The National Institute for Health Research
The NIHR is building a vibrant and world-class
research environment in England. It is:
• Establishing the NHS as an internationally
recognised centre of research excellence
• Commissioning research focused on improving
health and social care
CLAHRC News
• Attracting, developing and retaining the
Systemsto
Modelling
Simulation Knowledge Sharing Event
best research professionals
carryand
out
people-based researchThe first inter-CLAHRC knowledge sharing event on systems modelling and simulation
was successfullysystems
held in Cambridge on 19 and 20 March.
• Strengthening and streamlining
for research
The event was jointly organised by the NIHR CLAHRCs for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough and the South West Peninsula with support from the NHS Confederation. The aim
• Acting as a sound custodian
of public
money
was to explore
how systems
modelling and si mulation can help support the implemention of research-based improvements in healthcare services.
for public good.
the 1.5 days delegates were able to discuss specific examples of modelling tools
Visit the NIHR website at Over
inwww.nihr.ac.uk.
health improvement initiatives, explore good practice and exchange ideas about how
to improve understanding and use of these tools in the NHS.
Contact Details for the
TCC
The NIHR
participants
have expressed interest in st aying in touch and the organisers plan to
use this asCentre
an active special interest group within the NIHR CLAHRCs. The follow up
NIHR Trainees Coordinating
event in Exeter, which is currently under disc ussion, promises to be an even more excitLeeds Innovation Centre ing opportunity for all interested stakeholders in this growing area of research that
seems very relevant and timely in view of cu rrent political and economic realities in the
103 Clarendon Road
United Kingdom and beyond.
Leeds LS2 9DF
Tel: 0113 346 6260
Website: www.nihrtcc.nhs.uk
General Enquiries: nihrtcc@nihrtcc.org.uk
What are the priorities for research in dementia?
Integrated Academic Training:
iatenquiries@nccrcd.org.uk
HSRN Symposium: Delivering better
health services
19-20th June, Manchester Central
Click here to book your place.
Social Dimensions of Health Institute
25-26th June, University of St Andrews
Click here for more information.
18th International Network for
Psychiatric Nursing Research
conference
through the ages
26- 27 September 2012, Oxford
Submission deadline 8 May 2012
Click here for more information
Internal meetings
Building capacity in the
Rand Deep Dive
research workforce
20th April
James Lind Alliance in a priority setting partnership for dementia.
Clinical Academic Training:
The partnership will set priorities for future re search around the prevention, diagnosis,
cat.fellowships@nihrtcc.org.uk
treatment and care of dementia. It will work with people who have dementia, their car-
ers, former carers, family members, health and social care professionals and members
of the community to identify and prioritise the unanswered questions around dementia.
This will help ensure that future research can be focused on the issues that are the
NIHR Fellowships
most critical for those affected.
NIHR Fellowships
NIHR Integrated Academic Training
Clinical Academic Training Pathway
NIHR Research Methods Programme
NIHR Clinician Scientists
NIHR/CSO Healthcare Scientist Fellowships
Cambridge Institute of Public Health
Showcase Day, 2nd May, Cambridge
Click here for more information.
Research Capacity
Development
For more information on the event, please follow the link or contact Alexander Komash-
NIHR Fellowship Scheme:ie at A.Komashie@eng.cam.ac.uk
nihrfellowshipenquiries@nihrtcc.org.uk
April 2012
Events
Keep up to date with
upcoming events
MEG
23rd April
Project Leads
23rd April
NIHR Integrated Academic MEG
Training
May
Clinical Academic Training 14th
Pathway
NIHR Research Methods Programme
Programme Leads
NIHR Clinician Scientists 18th May
NIHR/CSO Healthcare Scientist Fellowships
tunity to submit any questions that you have been unable to find answers for.
For more information about the project and to access the survey click here
For more information about the James Lind Allia nce and its work on Priority Setting Partnerships click here
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Typefaces
The NIHR operates as a part of the NHS brand so the typeface we use must be consistent with that used
by the wider NHS community.
Frutiger is the standard NHS typeface. It is accessible and flexible, with a number of weights, as shown
on this page. You should use it for both headings and text.
If you can’t use Frutiger, you can use the NHS default typeface Arial, which is available on most PCs.
In the event that Frutiger or Arial is not available, you can use the secondary typefaces Garamond or
Times New Roman.
Further information can be found on the NHS Brand Guidelines website
(www.nhsidentity.nhs.uk/all-guidelines/guidelines/national-organisations/nhs-typefaces).
Frutiger
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz &£?! 0123456789
Frutiger Light
NIHR – working on behalf of the National Health Service and the people who use it.
Frutiger Roman
NIHR – working on behalf of the National Health Service and the people who use it.
Frutiger Bold
NIHR – working on behalf of the National Health Service and the people who use it.
Frutiger Black
NIHR – working on behalf of the National Health Service and the people who use it.
Arial
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz &£?! 0123456789
Typefaces for the web
The NHS font family for websites is Arial/Helvetica. These sans serif fonts conform to Level Double-A of
the W3C Web Content Accessibility Guidelines [link], are easy to read on screen, and should be the first
choice for use online.
Please see the Websites section (p27) for detailed guidance on developing websites.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
15
NIHR colour palette
Colour provides visual interest and can be used to:
●●
set the mood
●●
grab attention
●●
trigger an emotion
●●
work in harmony or in contrast to an idea
●●
support or distract from a message.
Because the NIHR identity is part of the NHS
brand, our colours are taken from the standard
NHS colour palette.
These bold colours have been chosen to make our
communications bright and easy to recognise.
The NIHR’s corporate colour is NHS Light Blue,
Pantone® Process Blue.
Each major work stream of the NIHR is colourcoded to differentiate between the operational
arms of the organisation. Consistent use of these
colours for communications will ensure that
people recognise NIHR communications and our
research activities.
The NIHR corporate and work stream colours
NIHR corporate colour
NHS Light Blue
Pantone® Process Blue
C 100% M 8.5% Y 0% K 6%
R 0 G 153 B 255
HTML 0099FF
Programmes
NHS Light Green
Pantone® 368
C 65% M 0% Y 100% K 0%
R 91 G 191 B 33
HTML 66CC33
Infrastructure
NHS Red
Pantone® 485
C 0% M 100% Y 91% K 0%
R 216 G 30 B 5
HTML CC0000
Industry
NHS Dark Pink
Pantone® 676
C 8.5% M 100% Y 0% K 15%
R 160 G 0 B 84
HTML 990066
Patient & Public Awareness
NHS Orange
Pantone® 144
C 0% M 47% Y 100% K 0%
R 226 G 140 B 5
HTML FF6600
Systems
NHS Aqua Blue with 50% tint
Pantone® 312
C 42% M 13% Y 0% K 0%
R 153 G 204 B 255
HTML 99CCFF
Faculty
NHS Purple
Pantone® 2685
C 100% M 94% Y 0% K 0%
R 86 G 0 B 140
HTML 330099
16
NIHR Identity Guidelines
NHS print colour palette
The NHS print colour palette provides for creativity and diversity. The colours within the colour palette
can be used as solid colours or as tints.
Please see the NHS Brand Guidelines website for the print colour palette (www.nhsidentity.nhs.uk/
all-guidelines/guidelines/national-organisations/nhs-colours).
NHS web colour palette
The NHS web colour palette is specifically for use in electronic media. It uses a different specification
system to the print colour palette. For example, within the web colour palette, NHS Blue (Pantone® 300)
is displayed using the hexadecimal format, HTML 0066CC. The web palette also allows for RGB
variations in electronic presentations. Tints of the web colour palette should not be used.
Please see the NHS Brand Guidelines website for the web colour palette (http://www.nhsidentity.nhs.uk/
all-guidelines/guidelines/national-organisations/nhs-colours/web-colour-palette).
Further guidance on creating websites can be found in the Websites section (p27).
Use of the NIHR colour palette by coordinating centres
The relevant NIHR work stream colours should be used by co‑ordinating centres to ensure their role in
the NIHR can be identified within the structure. Please see Structure (p3) for more information.
If an area of work spans the work streams, the NIHR corporate blue should be used.
3
3
dementias and neurodegenerative
stitute for Health Research
Networking for success
ng a vibrant and world-class
ent in England. It is:
NHS as an internationally
re of research excellence
research focused on improving
l care
loping and retaining the
ofessionals to carry out
search
nd streamlining systems
B
y drawing on
established, new
and cross-Network
relationships,
DeNDRoN achieved
its highest
recruitment for
a commercial
study to date and
suitably impressed a
commercial sponsor
to boot.
nd custodian of public money
site at www.nihr.ac.uk.
When approached by Lilly to explore the
feasibility of running an observational
study in the UK, DeNDRoN knew they were
faced with a challenge. Not only was this a
relatively new therapeutic area for Lilly, with
whom DeNDRoN had not previously worked,
but the recruitment target was also very
ambitious.
Judith Headley, Industry Portfolio Manager
for DeNDRoN, describes her initial thoughts
on the study:
“We knew that the GERAS study, which
looked into the resource use and cost of
Alzheimer’s disease, would be ideal to run
in the Network. However, based on our indepth knowledge of patient populations, we
were concerned that the original projected
patient target of 750 was unrealistic.
“So as well as seeking interest from our
Local Research Networks we asked the
Comprehensive Clinical Research Network if
they could help. During this early stage we
shared our concerns with Lilly and the target
was reduced twice, resulting in a minimum
target of 360 and an upper target of 600.”
DeNDRoN received 33 expressions of
interest from sites across the UK, 24 of
which were selected to run the study by
Lilly. This gure included ve sites led by
principal investigators who’d not previously
been involved in commercial research, one
of which was Dr Jenny McCleery, Principal
Investigator at a site in Thames Valley.
Commenting on her experience, she said:
“Prior to my involvement I had presumed
clinical studies involved a lot of bureaucracy
and form lling. However, this wasn’t the
case. DeNDRoN guided me through the
process and made many of the necessary
arrangements. I was able to delegate trial
tasks feeling completely condent that the
staff were well trained to carry them out.”
Faculty Associates
�
Dr McCleery’s site recruited the highest
number of patients in the UK and she even
extended her target twice due to the hard
Escalating costs. Experts warn that the cost of Alzheimer’s and other dementias will soar as life expectancy increases
for the NIHR TCC
Programme Grants for
Applied Research
oordinating Centre
Centre
ad
Six competitions
0
hrtcc.nhs.uk
nihrtcc@nihrtcc.org.uk
cheme:
nquiries@nihrtcc.org.uk
mic Training:
crcd.org.uk
3
Research Capacity
Development
Building capacity in the
research workforce
Training:
nihrtcc.org.uk
12
Networking for success
NIHR Fellowships
NIHR Integrated Academic Training
Clinical Academic Training Pathway
NIHR Research Methods Programme
NIHR Clinician Scientists
NIHR/CSO Healthcare Scientist Fellowships
NIHR Identity Guidelines
17
Use of the NIHR and NHS colour palettes by initiatives
NIHR research initiatives should use the relevant NIHR work stream colour as an accent highlight,
with one or more colour combinations from the NHS colour palette.
3
3
he National Institute for Health Research
engage
Establishing the NHS as an internationally
recognised centre of research excellence
Commissioning research focused on improving
health and social care
Research making a difference to practice
Attracting, developing and retaining the
best research professionals to carry out
Welcome
people-based research
Strengthening and streamlining systems
We’re halfway through our five-year programme, so
this edition of Engage has a theme of ‘lessons learnt’.
for research
The blackboard images throughout the newsletter
the ‘lessons’ for each article.
Acting as a sound custodian of public contain
money
for public good.
Alongside updates from our clinical themes, we give
tips on surviving organisational restructuring,
throw the spotlight on patient and public
sit the NIHR website at www.nihr.ac.uk.
involvement, and report back on a cross-
ontact Details for the NIHR TCC
el: 0113 346 6260
Website: www.nihrtcc.nhs.uk
CLAHRC knowledge sharing and
diffusion event.
Special features include CLAHRC BITEs
(our new ‘bite-sized’ communications
- see back page), a Social Return on
Investment analysis of CLAHRC, how
Map of Medicine is helping to share
clinical information across
boundaries, and Q&As with
researchers, one from each theme.
CLAHRC-NDL
Bi-annual newsletter
Edition 4 - Autumn 2011
CLAHRC at ‘halfway’
In March 2011 our incoming Director, Professor Rachel
Munton, initiated a mid-term review of CLAHRC-NDL,
which has enabled us to ‘take stock’ halfway through
our five-year programme.
After a number of review panels, workshops and
consultations with over 120 people, a draft document
was circulated to staff in June 2011.
Sixty-four responses from staff, colleagues from our
partner organisations, and others fed into proposals to
make sure CLAHRC makes the best use of the expertise
of its partner organisations and its staff.
Gene therapeutics
Eye bank
The BRC programme of research has
provided infrastructure support, such as a
Vector Core Facility, and focus groups for
researchers investigating the genetic
causes of blinding eye diseases.
Donations by members of the public of
human tissue to researchers to facilitate
the development of new approaches in
the treatment of blinding eye diseases.
Genotyping and phenotyping facility
Technical and senior research support
in genotyping and phenotyping to
underpin the research conducted by
all research themes.
Planning and
preparation
Find out more
To help you plan and undertake
public involvement in your research
we suggest you consider the
following points:
Imaging and psychophysics
involve people as early as possible
Combining the expertise of optometrists, senior
academic psychophysics researchers and senior
NHS clinicians. Imaging takes a number of
forms, of which microperimetry is just one.
be clear with the people you want to involve
be accessible
resource public involvement in research
offer training and support
about public involvement in research and the
requirements of research ethics review
Joint National Research Ethics Service
(NRES) and INVOLVE statement (2009)
www.invo.org.uk/resource-centre/publicationsby-involve
Public involvement in research
applications to the National Research
Ethics Centre (Tarpey 2011)
www.invo.org.uk/resource-centre/publicationsby-involve
document and record public involvement in
your research
Involve people as early
as possible
To find out more, see page 4.
Building capacity in the
research workforce
How to involve members
of the public in research
clarify organisational responsibilities
Research Capacity
Development
eneral Enquiries: nihrtcc@nihrtcc.org.uk
Associates
inical Academic Training:
at.fellowships@nihrtcc.org.uk
The presence of an integrated, comprehensive set of support
facilities is critical to our success. The following facilities enable
all our discoveries, progress and achievements.
We sent the proposals to three external reviewers in
August, and their comments have confirmed a set of
proposals - agreed by the CLAHRC Board and Senior
Leadership Team - for implementation in the next
phase of CLAHRC.
IHR Fellowship Scheme:
We have over 750 Associates from a wide range of
backgrounds who are interested in our applied health
ihrfellowshipenquiries@nihrtcc.org.uk
research. Associates are invited to free training, events,
tegrated Academic Training:
tenquiries@nccrcd.org.uk
Briefing note five:
Infrastructure support
he NIHR is building a vibrant and world-class
search environment in England. It is:
IHR Trainees Coordinating Centre
eeds Innovation Centre
03 Clarendon Road
eeds LS2 9DF
3
Cells for Sight Tissue Bank
seminars and conferences. As well as receiving regular
monthly updates and ‘Engage’ twice a year, you can
follow us on Twitter (@CLAHRC_NDL) and LinkedIn.
If you have ideas for applied research, for implementing
research or for improving evidence-based practice,
please get in touch. If we can’t help, we probably know
someone who can. We are keen to share new ideas, so
why not visit us (online at www.clahrc-ndl.nihr.ac.uk or
in person) to tell us what you think.
Involve people at an early stage so that they
feel part of the research and also have a
sense of ownership of the research. Consider
involving people in the identification and
prioritisation of the research topic and the
development of the research question. Ethical
approval is not needed where people are
involved in planning or advising on research,
for example as a co-applicant on a research
grant, a member of an advisory group or in
developing a questionnaire.
INVOLVE: Briefing notes for researchers, February 2012
NIHR Fellowships
NIHR Integrated Academic Training
Clinical Academic Training Pathway
NIHR Research Methods Programme
NIHR Clinician Scientists
NIHR/CSO Healthcare Scientist Fellowships
13
Using colours
When using colours consider your audience and the application you are using. Too many colours can
distract the eye and reduce readability.
Palette tints bring greater breadth and flexibility to our range of colours and are particularly useful when
producing diagrams and charts.
Make sure your colour choices enhance readability. Neutral colours work best as backgrounds and for use
with titles and headers. Deep and bright colours used for backgrounds with overlaid typography do not
always work well. This is particularly relevant for people with impaired vision. Given that we recommend
that NIHR documents should be published electronically, ensure that you avoid colour combinations or a
level of contrast that may hurt the reader’s eyes, for both electronic and print publishing.
Dos and don’ts
Do:
Don’t:
✔✔remember that many
✘✘ use the NHS print colour palette for web and electronic
colours trigger emotions
in readers
✔✔use colour to enhance and
support your materials, not
distract from the message
✔✔use complementary colours
that work well together.
18
publishing
✘✘ use tints of the web colour palette for electronic publishing
✘✘ use too many colours as it can distract and reduce readability
✘✘ use colour combinations or a level of contrast that hurt the eyes
✘✘ use green and red in foreground/background colour
combinations as it confuses colour-blind individuals.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Photographs and images
Photography and images are powerful and memorable tools that express values just as strongly
as colours and typefaces.
The NIHR is about the people at the centre of our research: not only the people who carry out health
research but also patients and the public, who will benefit from new and improved treatments,
interventions and preventative measures, and who will be able to make better choices about their health
as a result of our work.
The images we use should express this and our values of professionalism, equality and accessibility.
Images should reflect the pride we have for the work we do and the organisation we work for. They
should show us as a modern, accessible, honest and cost-effective business and represent the diversity
of the research community as well as the patients and public of 21st century Britain.
In most applications photography is preferable to cartoons and illustrations.
The NHS Photo Library
The NIHR uses photography from the NHS Photo Library. The NHS Photo Library provides a
comprehensive resource for the NHS and related social care organisations, offering access to
cost‑effective photography for use in communication materials.
The library can be accessed at www.photolibrary.nhs.uk. See the Resources section (p76) for information
on how to obtain permission to use the NHS Photo Library.
Independently sourced images
Permission from the copyright holder must be sought for images sourced from elsewhere, and paid for
if required.
If taking new photographs of staff and patients, you must ensure that you obtain their permission and
record and keep their consent to publish the photographs.
The NIHR filmstrip
The NIHR filmstrip, also known as the ribbon device, is a design feature that has been created especially
for NIHR communications.
The NIHR filmstrip presents images that show the range of work the NIHR undertakes. It is a distinctive
graphic that assists audiences to recognise NIHR communications and help the NIHR identity to stand out
within the NHS brand. Its use is optional.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
19
The filmstrip is a flexible device that can be positioned in different ways to add movement and variety
to NIHR communications. When using the filmstrip, you should ensure that the edges do not show.
Photographs and the NIHR filmstrip should not be used together on the same page, as it makes the page
look crowded.
Please note that the NIHR filmstrip is not a logo but a design style. You can use it in any publications that
uses the NIHR logotype, but you must not place it directly under the NIHR logotype, as the exclusion
zone must be maintained.
Images of the filmstrip is available from the NIHR portal. See the Resources section (p76) for information
on how to gain access.
NIHR filmstrips
20
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Using images
Documents can be enhanced with photographs or illustrations. When choosing images for NIHR
websites or publications you should:
●●
check the resolution is at least 72 dots per inch (dpi) and a maximum of 150 dpi to ensure high quality
is obtained if publishing online
●●
check the resolution is at least 300 dpi for print
●●
ensure that the image is relevant to the subject of the page or section
●●
use good-quality images that will still work well when resized or cropped
●●
choose pictures that show people from a diverse range of racial and social groups.
If specific images are used to illustrate text, a caption should give a short explanation of the image.
Usually, images will be rectangular with clearly defined edges. A border will help to define more clearly
images where lighter edges are lost against the background, but the thickness of the border should be
no more than 1 point.
Graphs and maps should be well drawn, clearly labelled and easy to understand.
Remember that high-resolution images increase file size, so that a web page or publication with many
images will take a long time for some users to download.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
21
Dos and don’ts
Do:
Don’t:
✔✔use pictures of real people – staff, researchers, patients,
✘✘ use small photos, graphs and
the public – from diverse ethnic and social groups
maps that are unreadable
✔✔use the NHS Photo Library when searching for
✘✘ use too many images on a
photography, as it contains a vast range of relevant and
sensitive images
page as these distract from
the message
✔✔consider the appearance of the whole page or spreads
✘✘ use the NIHR filmstrip and
when sizing and positioning images and the filmstrips
other photographs on the
same page.
✔✔use clear diagrams and maps that are easy to understand.
Correct use of images
3
3
6
Search for novel
cancer antibodies
A research programme to
search for the next generation
of treatments for melanoma
and other cancers has been
funded by the Biomedical
Research Centre, bringing together researchers from the
Centre’s cancer, dermatology and imaging themes.
Researchers will hunt for treatments similar to Herceptin
that use antibodies to target proteins found in cancer cells
which are absent in healthy tissue. Although some
antibody treatments have already been approved for some
cancers, with over 200 different types of cancer, the
potential for identifying new antibody treatments is far
from being realised.
“Around 9,500 people are diagnosed
with melanoma (skin cancer) in the UK
each year and we hope that through
this programme, we will be able to
identify potential new treatments that
can be tested in the future in clinical
studies.”
Dr Sophia Karagiannis
Biomedical Research Centre senior research fellow
Consultant Oncologist, Dr James Spicer, who runs the
Cancer Early Phase Trials Unit at Guy’s Hospital is leading the
team of researchers involved in the study. The team will
focus on isolating proteins found in tumours but absent in
healthy tissue that can be targeted by antibodies. They will
try to discover and validate antibodies which can bind to
these, establishing their potential for entry into clinical trials
as possible new treatments. In addition, the three year
project will use imaging techniques and other laboratory
studies to validate candidate antibodies.
How patients have helped
us with our research
UCLH/UCL NIHR Comprehensive Biomedical Research Centre
23
Incorrect use of images
8
8
8
THEMES
NEWS
A decreasing number of applications received has led to
a general fall in the number of programmes funded in
successive competitions. However, the success rate of
Stage 2 (full) applications has actually increased from
25% in the first competition round to 40% in the sixth
competition (Table 1).
To date, a large proportion of the applications received
and funded have originated from the London and North
West regions, while the lowest numbers of applications
have come from the North East and South East Coast
regions (Table 2). However, the proportion of
applications funded has been generally similar across
the regions.
Competition
Number
Stage 1 (outline)
Applications
Submitted
Stage 2 (full)
Applications
Submitted
Number of
Programmes Funded
1
325
115
29
2
242
86
25
3
109
54
20
4
51
25
5
85
39
6
54
22
9
Total
866
341
107
10
Region
Stage 1
(outline)
Applications
Submitted
Stage 2 (full)
Applications
Submitted
Number of
Programmes
Funded
East Midlands
68
26
7
East of England
London
The UK Clinical Research Collaboration (UKCRC) Health
Research Classification System (HRCS) is used to classify
research funded by Programme Grants; this has 21
separate health categories which encompass all diseases,
conditions and areas of health (see www.hrcsonline.net
for further information). Many of the programmes
funded are relevant to more than one area and therefore
appear in multiple health categories.
Nearly half of successful applications in the first competition
round were for research programmes on mental health, and
mental health research has continued to be particularly well
represented – 30% of programmes funded in the first six
competition rounds have been classified as relevant to this
category (see Figure 5). In the first competition round,
programmes falling within the Stroke, Metabolic and
Endocrine (diabetes) and Neurological (dementia) categories
were also well-represented, and this has continued to be
reflected in the programme portfolio.
47
17
344
124
....................................................................................
• Develop skills and expertise in improvement
methodology, action research and evaluation
• Apply this learning to a specific project initiated
and led by the fellow
• Develop an active network across northwest London
and elsewhere
• Promote the implementation of the CLAHRC
programme and help the vision become reality
• Contribute to the CLAHRC faculty and mentorship
programme beyond their fellowship tenure.
7
35
North East
26
9
1
North West
102
51
15
South Central
53
27
11
South East Coast
15
2
1
South West
61
27
12
West Midlands
82
32
8
Yorkshire and the Humber
68
26
10
Total
866
341
107
Community Engagement Event, February 2009
The research topics of other programmes that have
been funded are broadly spread across the HRCS-defined
disease categories, while a significant number of
programmes address issues that pertain to a broad range
of disease areas – these fall into the Generic Health
Relevance category. Figure 6 shows the total spend for
each health category over the first six competitions.
..............................................................
What ‘s involved?
IN THIS ISSUE:
Stroke
£13,580,086
Skin
£7,675,547
Respiratory
£5,368,308
Clinical Research
Network focus
on delivery for
commercial partners
Renal and Urogenital
£3,968,921
Blood
£3,799,363
Cardiovascular
£10,361,786
Reproductive Health
and Childbirth
£7,518,692
Cancer
£10,772,212
Other
£953,336
Congenital Disorders
£584,446
Improving quality
and productivity in
the NHS through
research
Generic Health
Relevance
£13,316,221
32
30
Number of awards
The fellows’ objectives
will be to:
14
Table
2: SSummary off th
the numbers
off St
Stage 1 and
Stage 2 applications
T
bl 2
b
d St
li ti
submitted and the number of programmes funded per region
What applied research
is being funded?
25
Infection
£18,428,318
Neurological
£17,343,117
20
16
14
15
14
11
11
10
10
2
6
4
1
Mental Health
£44,195,180
9
8
6
5
5
Supporting the
life-science industry
to bring new
treatments to
diabetes patients
4
1
1
0
e
s
r
r
r e
n
h e
od ce ula
er Ea Ey io un ents lt in etal ical inal ital irth ory Skin ke ce ther
ro an O
g st en b at
ct m id
ea cr el
Blo Can sc
ord
H o
St ev
lo
ir
fe
g
va Dis
In d Im Acc tal End losk ro inte ro Child esp
Rel
dio al
R
an & en & scu Neu tro & U &
lth
u
es M lic
Car enit
as al lth
ea
ory ri
M
G
o
H
en ea
at Inju
ng
ab
ic
l& R H
m
et
Co
e
er
ra
M
iv
O
en
flam
ct
G
In
du
ro
Rep
Figure 5: Graph showing the number of awards made
category
the
competitions
by
y hea
health
h ca
categ
tegory
goryy in th
e firs
ffirst
irstt ssix
ix com
compet
p
Oral and
Gastrointestinal
£4,072,632
Musculoskeletal
£8,848,204
Metabolic and Endocrine
£11,099,191
Injuries and Accidents
£1,999,845
Figure 6: Chart showing total committed spend for each health
category for the first six competition (where a programme falls
within a number of categories the total award is divided equally
between the relevant health categories)
Programme Grants for Applied Research
22
This new programme is designed to support the CLAHRC’s mission to build capacity throughout the northwest London
sector and is based on experience of the NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement fellowship programme, Institute
for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) and Canada’s SEARCH programme. Its aim is to develop a range of future leaders in
research, innovation and improvement with the authority and ability to advance change in their organisations and beyond,
thus building capacity and supporting spread and sustainability in line with CLAHRC objectives.
Table 1: Summary of the numbers of Stage 1 and Stage 2 applications
submitted and the number of programmes funded per competition
Number of programmes funded
35
The Fellowship Programme
All fellows will undertake a project which meets both
local NHS and CLAHRC objectives. Each fellow will be
expected to produce at least one publication based on
their project and an evaluation report of their experiences
in the programme.
All fellows will become part of the CLAHRC faculty and
continue to support CLAHRC objectives, for example by
presenting their work at events or by providing support
and mentorship to fellows in subsequent cohorts.
..............................................................
Fellows’ Support
and Development
The fellows will attend a three day introductory course
and over a period of nine months, spend one day per
month (for which CLAHRC will provide a bursary) devoted
to their project and networking with their colleagues.
Fellows will follow a tailor-made programme aligned
with CLAHRC’s established CLD programme.
One step at a time....
15
Supporting research to make patients, and the NHS, better
Issue 6 | March 2012
17
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Using words
Words influence people just as much as brand and design. Written communications provide a means
of showing how the NIHR is committed to meeting the needs of its audiences and express our values
and principles.
Every time we issue a press notice, upload e-communications, publish a document or tweet we are
acting as an ambassador for the NIHR and providing an impression of what the NIHR is like as an
organisation. A communication can add to, or detract from, our reputation and the confidence others
place in us.
All our communications should be clear and concise, direct, honest and open. Our subject matter is often
complex, but we must use words that are accessible, keep sentences and paragraphs short, and avoid
inappropriate jargon, acronyms and overly technical language.
Style
The brand
The National Institute for Health Research can also be referred to as the NIHR.
The acronym NIHR must not be abbreviated to ‘N’.
When using the NIHR logotype, you should not duplicate the name in print. See the Applications section
(p26) for further details.
Acronyms and abbreviations
Write a name or term in full, followed by the acronym or abbreviation in brackets, e.g.:
●●
National Institute for Health Research School for Public Health Research (NIHR SPHR)
●●
National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment (NIHR HTA) Programme
●●
National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre (NIHR Cambridge BRC).
Once the full name has been spelt out its acronym or abbreviation can be used thereafter.
Do not put full stops in acronyms or abbreviations, e.g. NIHR not N.I.H.R.
Acronyms or abbreviations should only be used to refer to organisations, areas of the health and social
care system, medical conditions and the names of research projects. Never use an acronym or
abbreviation the first time these are written down.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
23
Universally accepted acronyms and abbreviations such as NHS and A&E do not have to be written in
full first.
Do not use an apostrophe for pluralised acronyms or abbreviations, e.g. BRUs not BRU’s.
Possessive acronyms should have an apostrophe, e.g. the NIHR’s exhibition stand at the conference.
Do not put full stops after a contraction of a person’s title, e.g. Dr Keith Ridge, not Dr. Keith Ridge.
See the Language, format and punctuation style guide (p62) for further guidance.
Using relationship and funding statements as accurate descriptors
Relationship and funding statements should be written to provide the specific details required. They may
be used separately or jointly, as early as the sense of the sentence allows.
Relationship statement example:
The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) School for Primary Care Research is
a partnership between the Universities of Birmingham, Bristol, Keele, Manchester,
Nottingham, Oxford, Southampton and University College London.
Funding statement example:
The School for Primary Care Research is funded by the National Institute for
Health Research.
Initiative detailed funding statement example:
The National Institute for Health Research Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre has been
awarded £xxx for a period of 5 years, from 1 April 2012.
In cases where an initiative is only part funded by the NIHR, the statement should clarify this in simple,
clear language. For example:
The UK Cochrane Centre is part of the international Cochrane Collaboration, an independent
not-for-profit consortium dedicated to providing up-to-date, accurate information about the
effects of health care. The National Institute for Health Research is the largest single funder.
Research project funding statement example:
The [name of project] is funded by the National Institute for Health Research [name of
research programme] Programme.
Research support for independently funded research statement example:
The [name of project] is supported by the National Institute for Health Research [name]
Biomedical Research Centre and the [name] Research Network. The views expressed are
those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the NHS, the NIHR or the Department
of Health.
24
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Strap lines
The NIHR strap line may be used in externally facing publications:
Improving the health and wealth of the nation through research
Strap lines should not have a full stop at the end.
NIHR initiatives can develop their own strap lines and use these in their publication materials, rather than
the NIHR strap line. A strap line should capture the essence of what the initiative, programme, project or
facility is funded to do and each strap line should be cleared with the relevant coordinating centre
communications lead.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
25
3
Applications
The NIHR is a large, multi-faceted organisation distributed throughout England. It comprises coordinating
centres, research programmes, initiatives such as research schools, research infrastructure such as centres
and units, research networks and numerous individual research projects funded by the various initiatives
and programmes. All of these will be communicating with their own stakeholder groups.
The NIHR identity supports the individual parts of the NIHR in developing and tailoring communications
to meet the needs of their specific stakeholder groups. However, all communications should observe
the NIHR identity guidelines to support the reputation of the NIHR.
NIHR corporate identity
The NIHR corporate identity is a combination of the NIHR logotype, the colour NHS Light Blue
(Pantone® Process Blue) and the NIHR filmstrip.
Visuals of NIHR corporate materials
Embedding
Health Research
National Institute for Health Research
Annual Report 2009/10
NIHR-wide identity
The following pages show how the NIHR identity should be applied by coordinating centres and
initiatives to various communication vehicles.
NIHR initiatives can create their own ‘look and feel’ design in compliance with the NIHR and NHS brand
guidelines.
26
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Websites
Websites are live communication tools and our shop window to the world. Their easy accessibility means
that the NIHR websites are the most important form of communication with our audiences. They provide
several functions:
●●
underpinning the NIHR’s identity
●●
increasing the visibility of the NIHR
●●
educating people about the NIHR
●●
providing up-to-date information about the NIHR’s research initiatives and activities
●●
informing researchers of the latest calls for research proposals and training opportunities
●●
giving researchers access to application systems and other toolkits
●●
providing an archive of live, completed and published NIHR-funded research.
Dedicated NIHR websites
NIHR logotype
All dedicated NIHR websites must have the NIHR logotype placed in the top right-hand corner of the
master page, ensuring compliance with the exclusion zone and size guidance (p10).
The NIHR initiative name should be positioned on the left-hand side, in equal proportion to the NIHR
logotype. The font size should not be bigger than the NHS lozenge, and all the text should be the same
font size. As the NIHR logotype is being used, ‘NIHR’ must not be inserted in front of the initiative name.
Strap lines must not be written directly under the initiative name or the NIHR logotype. The strap line
should be placed in an appropriate position depending on the website design.
Ensure a link is provided to the NIHR website (http://www.nihr.ac.uk).
Using partner logos
Partner logos can be placed at the bottom of the website master page or home page.
However, NHS branding policy does not permit more than one NHS national lozenge to be included
on a web page. Therefore, NIHR-funded initiatives that have partnerships with other NHS organisations
cannot use the NIHR logotype as well as the partner NHS organisation logo on the website master page
or home page.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
27
When an initiative has an NHS organisation as a partner, a relationship statement listing all partner
organisations, with links to their websites, should be used. The statement can positioned either
at the bottom or elsewhere on the home page, depending on the design.
It is also recommended that details of the funding provided by the NIHR, as well as more detailed
information about partner organisations, is included in the ‘About us’ page.
See Using relationship and funding statements as accurate descriptors (p24).
URLs
New URLs for websites should follow the NIHR format of www.XXX.nihr.ac.uk, where XXX is the name
of the coordinating centre or initiative. Please note that .org, .com and .nhs URLs are not advised.
The NIHR has procedure for the registration of NIHR URLs. In order to complete the registration, an
IP address of the host is needed. Therefore, sites should establish their hosting arrangements first.
To register the URL, contact the R&D Information Manager – see Contacts (p77).
Dos and don’ts
Do:
Don’t:
✔✔make sure you use the NIHR logotype correctly
✔✔position the initiative name appropriately
✔✔use the relevant NIHR work stream colour
✘✘ alter the NIHR logotype in any way
✘✘ add other graphics or typography within
the exclusion zone
✘✘ use the NIHR logotype with other NHS
appropriately
organisation logos on the same web
page.
✔✔follow the relevant advice for creating websites.
Correct use of NIHR identity
3
28
3
3
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Website pages hosted by non-NHS partner organisations
If an initiative has pages hosted on a partner’s existing website, such as a university website, you will
need to work with the host to ensure that NIHR guidance is adhered to.
The NIHR logotype should not be positioned top right, but in a prominent position depending on
the website design.
Remember that another NHS organisation
logo cannot be placed on the same page as
the NIHR logotype, so a relationship statement
listing all partner organisations, with links to
their websites, should be used.
3
A funding statement must also be used,
together with a link to the NIHR website
(www.nihr.ac.uk).
See Using relationship and funding statements as accurate descriptors (p24).
Website pages hosted by NHS organisations
If your initiative has pages hosted on an NHS organisation website, you should not use the NIHR
logotype but ensure that you use the full name of the initiative, e.g.
National Institute for Health Research [name] Biomedical Research Centre
in a prominent position. A funding statement must also be used, together with a link to the NIHR
website (www.nihr.ac.uk).
See Using relationship and funding statements as accurate descriptors (p24).
Please see the NHS Brand Guidelines for further
website guidance (http://www.nhsidentity.nhs.uk/
all-guidelines/guidelines/national-organisations/
websites).
3
Dos and don’ts
Do:
Don’t:
✔✔use the full NIHR initiative name
✔✔acknowledge the NIHR funding and all partners
✔✔link to the NIHR website
✘✘ use the NIHR logotype with another
NIHR Identity Guidelines
NHS organisation’s logo on the same
web page.
29
Website design
Style sheets should be used for page layouts to help readers navigate through a website and user
pathways will guide visitors to key information quickly. Metadata tagging should underpin the search
function.
Minimum standard of accessibility
The minimum standard of accessibility for all public-sector websites is Level Double-A of the W3C Web
Content Accessibility Guidelines (http://www.w3.org/TR/WCAG10/). All new websites must conform
to these guidelines from the point of staging platforms through to going live.
Colour
NHS web colour palette
The NHS web colour palette should be used when creating a new website. It uses a different
specification system to the print colour palette, which allows for RGB variations in electronic
presentations. Tints of the web colour palette should not be used.
Please see the NHS Brand Guidelines website for the web colour palette (http://www.nhsidentity.nhs.uk/
all‑guidelines/guidelines/national-organisations/nhs-colours/web-colour-palette).
White space
White space helps to separate page elements and makes it easier for users to read web pages.
Intense colours
Certain colours, particularly when used for large expanses of page space, are tiring to the eye and can
make it more difficult to read the content. Some colours are not fatiguing on their own but become
difficult to look at when combined with other colours. Avoid using intense colours for large expanses
on your page, such as page, table or navigation-bar backgrounds. Reserve these colours for accent
highlights on your pages.
Typefaces for the web
The NHS font family for websites is Arial/Helvetica. These sans serif fonts conform to Level Double-A of
the W3C Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, are easy to read on screen, and should be the first choice
for use online.
Images for the web
When choosing images for websites or online publications:
●●
●●
●●
check the resolution is at least 72 dots per inch (dpi) and a maximum of 150 dpi to ensure high
resolution quality
ensure that the image is relevant to the subject of the page or section
remember that high-resolution images increase file size, so having many images on a web page will
increase the time it takes for the page to load.
30
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Links
Make sure links are relevant to the copy they follow. Too many links on a page can be distracting.
Use the established convention of:
●●
highlighting links in blue underlined text, and reserve this style just for links
●●
describing the destination of a link so it makes sense when read out of context. Do not use ‘click here’
●●
●●
ensuring that links go to the expected page, website or document, and check regularly for
broken links
opening links to other websites in a new window to ensure our site stays visible and accessible.
As a publicly funded organisation, NIHR should not link to commercial sites or advertise or endorse the
products or services of others. The only exception to this is when working in partnership. Even then, you
must not endorse products or services.
Using logos as links
There is no restriction on using logos as links to partner websites as long you follow their guidance on
linking to their sites. If no guidance is given, contact the web manager for permission to link to their site.
The NIHR logo should be used as a link to the NIHR corporate website (www.nihr.ac.uk).
NIHR Identity Guidelines
31
Content design
Know your audience
Make sure your website is easy to understand. What makes it easy for you to find your way around
a web page also applies to your audience. Be clear about what each section of the site is about.
Encourage people to keep visiting your pages.
Guide your reader
Ensure your information guides visitors through your pages and helps them to find key information
quickly.
Make your pages easy to scan
Make sure all your titles, subheadings and links are descriptive and meaningful. People scan web
pages when looking for information.
Easy to search
Include keywords in the first few lines of your web page. This will help guide people to your
information, as these keywords will be identified by search engines.
What’s new and news
Keep sections entitled Latest news, Recent news, Latest information or Stop press up to date. If you
don’t, site visitors will stop reading your web pages and will miss key information when it is added.
Be selective about what is placed on ‘What’s new’ pages.
Dates
Make sure readers are clear about the timing of key activities. Undated information is misleading.
State a specific month and year. Do not use general terms such as ‘recently’, ‘last year’, ‘latest’
or ‘today’.
Timeliness
Information published on the web dates quickly. Your pages should reflect the NIHR’s priorities and
what is happening in your area at any given time.
Language, format and punctuation
Please ensure that you also take into account the advice provided in the Language, format and
punctuation style guide (p62).
32
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Archiving websites
If, and when, NIHR funding for an initiative comes to an end, related websites need to reflect this and,
when no longer in active service, sites should be archived.
Sites that are no longer being funded but continue to have ongoing research projects need to include
the following statement in a prominent place on the home page:
The funding for [full name of initiative] ended on [date]. This site will remain live until the
ongoing research projects are finalised [insert projected date].
When there are no ongoing projects, or when the last project(s) are finalised, the site should be taken
down. A copy of the final version of the site should be sent to the Department of Health R&D
Information Manager on a USB drive. See Contacts (p77).
Sites that are no longer being funded by the NIHR but continue to operate with funding from other
sources – for example, at research centres/units – should modify their websites to reflect this. The NIHR
logotype should be removed and the relationship statements amended to acknowledge that NIHR
funding was awarded for a specific period of time.
Apps
NIHR Apps can be developed to enable stakeholders to access key information quickly and easily.
Apps must be branded NIHR and the relevant coordinating centre should be approached for approval
of designs.
Email domain
The NIHR Information Systems Programme is currently unable to issue NIHR-wide
email addresses and therefore an email domain name must be established by
initiatives. However, the NIHR is seeking to establish a generic email account
for all NIHR organisations, to commence at the end of 2012. This will be in
the format of firstname.[initial].surname@nihr.ac.uk.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
33
Publications
The NIHR produces information for diverse audiences. All published material represents the NIHR identity,
shapes how people think and feel about us, and so must reflect our purpose and values. Clear, articulate,
well structured and stakeholder-targeted publications are a highly visible example of how the NIHR is
committed to meeting the needs of its audiences.
Publications cost money and use resources to produce. All NIHR publications should only be produced
to meet a defined business need and should be able to demonstrate they provide value for money.
Electronic publishing in PDF format is the preferred way of producing documents and other materials,
and many publications, such as newsletters, are published only in electronic format. When typesetting
your document, please bear in mind that it is difficult to read columns online as it necessitates scrolling
up and down the page.
The guidelines below should be followed for all publications, printed or electronic.
Types of publications and use of the NIHR logotype
The range of publications produced by the NIHR includes annual reports, guidance for researchers,
newsletters, information leaflets for patients and the public, project recruitment materials, systematic
reviews, reports and summaries of research findings. The positioning of the NIHR logotype on
publications needs to be considered carefully as use of the logotype in the top right-hand corner implies
the NIHR ‘owns’ or endorses the information presented.
Corporate publications
Corporate publications describe what we do, report on what we have done or provide information
about the tools and services we provide and include guidance documents and forms, newsletters,
annual reports and information leaflets for general distribution. A communications editorial process
and managerial sign-off will have been applied to all corporate publications.
This type of publication must have the NIHR logotype positioned top right on the front cover.
The logotype should always be used in compliance with the exclusion zone and size guidance (p10).
Please remember that individual logos are not allowed, and any pre-existing logos must not be used.
34
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Research journals, reviews, briefings and summaries
NIHR research journals, systematic reviews, technology reviews, and summaries and briefings of research
findings would normally, but not exclusively, be produced by NIHR’s Evaluations, Trials and Studies
Coordinating Centre, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, Horizon Scanning Centre, Collaborations
for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care, other research infrastructure and the UK Cochrane
Review Groups.
A communications editorial process and managerial sign-off will also have been applied to these
publications and therefore the NIHR ‘owns’ the content and endorses the quality of the science and
methodologies it is reporting on, but does not necessarily endorse the findings of the research.
These publications should therefore use the NIHR logotype positioned bottom right on the front cover
in compliance with the exclusion zone and size guidance (p10-11) and must use the NIHR Disclaimer
(p42).
Research outputs
Publications about research findings, including summaries, briefings and reports, must not use the NIHR
logotype but should carry a funding statement together with the NIHR disclaimer (p42).
See Publishing research findings (p41).
Patient materials
Materials produced for patients relating to NIHR-funded research projects, including recruitment leaflets
and posters, may include the NIHR logotype, but it must not be positioned top right. The NIHR logotype
may be positioned bottom right on the front cover, on the inside cover or on the back page and should
be accompanied by a funding statement, e.g.
The [name of project] is funded by the National Institute for Health Research’s
[Public Health Research] Programme.
If an NHS organisation logo is used, the NIHR logotype must not be included on the same page.
See also Additional information for
researchers (p73).
3
Back page
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Front page
35
Position of coordinating centre/initiative name
There are two options for presenting the coordinating centre/initiative name on the front cover
of publications.
Option 1:
3
INVOLVE
The name can be placed on the left-hand side in equal proportion
to the NIHR logotype. The font size should not be bigger than the
NHS logo and all the text should be the same font size.
Briefing notes
for researchers:
public involvement in
NHS, public health and
social care research
Strap lines should not be written directly under the coordinating
centre/initiative name, but should be placed in an appropriate
position depending on the publication design.
Option 2:
The name can be placed in another position, depending on the nature and design – for example, in the
centre or bottom of the publication cover, ensuring that the text size is kept in proportion to the size of
the NIHR logotype.
3
3
National Institute for
Health Research
For more information about the National Institute of Health Research visit:
www.nihr.ac.uk
For more information about the Research Capability Programme or to request
further copies of this brochure please visit:
www.nihr.ac.uk/systems/pages/research_capability_programme.aspx
Health Research
Support Service
Improving health through research
© Crown Copyright 2010
Ref: HRSS0510
Delivered by the Research Capability Programme
3
Publications produced with non-NHS partners
When a publication is produced in partnership with another
organisation, the guidance on Using the NIHR logotype with non-NHS
partner brands (p13) should be applied.
If more than one partner is involved it is better to avoid using a
number of logos on the front cover and instead use a relationship
statement positioned at the bottom of the front cover. Partner logos
can be placed on the inside front or the back cover.
36
Office for Clinical Research Infrastructure
Academic – NHS – Industry Collaboration
in Experimental Medicine
Innovative partnering
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Publications produced with NHS partners
NIHR-funded initiatives that have partnerships with other academic and NHS organisations cannot use
the NIHR logotype as well as their partner NHS organisation logo on the front cover.
There are two options that can be used separately or jointly:
●●
partner logos can be placed on the inside front or the back cover of the publication
●●
list all the partner organisations at the bottom of the front cover.
Please see Using the NIHR logotype with other NHS organisations (p14).
3
NHS
National Institute for
Health Research
Sharing research, improving health
An introduction to the CLAHRC
The foundations - five facts
1. CLAHRC stands for Collaboration for
Leadership in Applied Health Research
and Care.
2. We serve Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire
and Lincolnshire and are one of nine
CLAHRCs nationwide.
3. We are funded by the National Institute
for Health Research.
4. We work closely with the University of
Nottingham, partner health and social care
organisations, voluntary agencies, patients,
service users and carers.
5. Our purpose is to transform healthcare by
speeding up the time it takes to get the
findings from research into practice.
Our approach
Collaboration – we co-produce all our
research programmes with partner NHS
organisations, helping them introduce
innovative services, which are better for
patients and more efficient to run.
Leadership – we lead by example,
demonstrating research excellence.
Application – we make sure that our
research is relevant to the real world and is
seen by practitioners to solve real problems.
Health – our focus is on improving NHS
services, people’s lives and life choices.
Research – our high quality research aims
Our focus
Our current work is grouped into four themes
and within each of those themes are four
specific programmes:
• Children and Young people: Two research
programmes focus on Attention Deficit
Hyperactivity Disorder, one looks at improving
assessments of mental health and one at
encouraging exercise in children with asthma.
• Mental Health: The programmes cover
research into a specialist service to treat
depression, dental hygiene and mental health,
the role of employment in mental health, and
supporting people with personality disorders
to take part in treatment.
• Primary Care: Topics being researched are
reducing the risk of developing diabetes,
especially in south Asian populations,
minimising the impact of injuries, managing
‘regular attenders’ in GP practices and
improving preconception healthcare.
How can I get involved?
• Stroke Rehabilitation: Our research
programmes cover early supported discharge
from hospital, home visits, support with
returning to work, and a study into improving
agility using specially adapted computer
games.
NIHR CLAHRC Nottinghamshire,
Derbyshire and Lincolnshire
The Sir Colin Campbell Building
University of Nottingham Innovation Park
Triumph Road, Nottingham NG7 2TU
We are keen to work with you to develop your
own research proposals and to hear your views.
to ensure that ‘what we know is what we do’.
Care – our work is developed with
You can contact us via:
Tel: 0115 823 1253
clahrc@nottingham.ac.uk
www.clahrc-ndl.nihr.ac.uk
Twitter: CLAHRC_NDL
patients, for patients, improving their
lives and their experience of health
and social care services.
A partnership of:
CLAHRC-NDL is a member of:
Nottinghamshire Healthcare
NHS Trust
NHS
Positive about integrated healthcare
Front Page
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Back page
37
Colour
Colours should be used to enhance and support the NIHR identity, which will lead to better recognition.
When using colours, consider your audience. Too many colors can distract and reduce readability.
See the NIHR colour palette section (p16).
Targeting your audience
Most NIHR printed publications fall into the categories of research guidance, information leaflets,
newsletters, annual reports, and press releases. These are written for our audiences, which include:
●●
researchers and academics
●●
life-sciences industry
●●
research charities
●●
professionals and staff in the health and social care services
●●
NHS patients, social care service users, the public
●●
colleagues in the NIHR
●●
Ministers in the Department of Health and other government departments
●●
the media.
These audiences want targeted communications, in straightforward language, focusing on the facts they
need to know. This helps us to share the most important information with each audience, give them
what they need to know and recognise that they are not one homogeneous group.
Please ensure that you take into account the advice provided in the Using words section (p23).
Accreditations
Individual personal accreditations, such as acknowledging writers, should not be included in NIHR
publications. However, contact details for more information should be provided when materials such
as newsletters, press releases and guidance are produced.
38
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Content
Printed publications are a way of sharing information about our work and supporting health and
social care researchers.
Always consider the following questions before embarking on a publication:
What makes a good publication?
●●
Correct use of NIHR branding.
●●
A clear introduction, summary and chapters or sections with meaningful titles.
●●
A structure that makes it easy for readers to find information.
●●
An accessible and comprehensive overview of a subject.
●●
Clear, straightforward language that is easy to understand.
●●
Meaningful subheadings, quotes and references to other information.
●●
Simple page layouts.
●●
Arial font 12 point and a consistent style with good use of images, charts, tables, white space
and colour as appropriate.
What are you publishing?
●●
Be very clear about the purpose of your publication.
●●
Identify who your target audience is and what you want to tell them.
●●
Think about the expectations of your audience, as a professional research audience may have
different expectations to a member of the public/patient.
What are you going to say?
●●
Identify the essential information that must be included in the document.
●●
Create meaningful chapter titles and identify what they will be about.
●●
Focus on the key information that must be covered in each chapter or section.
●●
Explain the key issues, and how these may affect your audience, in straightforward language.
How will you present and structure the information?
●●
●●
●●
●●
Think about how you will highlight key information.
Simplify complex information or break it up using bullet points, subheadings, images, charts,
tables, white space and colour as appropriate.
If using a quote, ensure it is attributed, that the words people have spoken are the ones used and
that consent to use the quote is given. Never use orphan quotes.
Apply the writing tips provided in the Language, format and punctuation style guide (p62).
NIHR Identity Guidelines
39
Dos and don’ts
Do:
Don’t:
✔✔make sure you use the NIHR logotype consistently
✘✘ alter the NIHR logotype in any way
✘✘ add other graphics or typography
and correctly
✔✔position the coordinating centre/initiative name
within the exclusion zone
appropriately
✘✘ place other NHS logos on the
✔✔use the relevant NIHR work stream colour appropriately
✔✔follow the relevant advice for producing publications
same page as the NIHR logotype
✘✘ create or use individual logos.
Correct use of NIHR identity in publication design
3
3
Winter 2007
School for Primary Care Research News
3
Making a national
and international impact
Our funding structures…
accounting for public money
•
Unparalleled increases in health research
funding to the NIHR were announced by the
Chancellor of the Exchequer in the wake of
the last Comprehensive Spending Review.
This shows the Government’s continued
commitment to health research and takes
the NIHR budget to almost £1 billion.
All NIHR funding continues to be based
on our established principles of relevance,
quality, transparency, fairness, competition
and contestability. Increased funding is
supporting NHS research, demonstrating that
the NHS can respond positively to the needs
of delivering high-quality peer-reviewed
research.
The three-year study is exploring the relationships between the organisational and cultural
characteristics of hospitals, and how these impact upon clinical effectiveness, patient safety
and experience. Data will be collected in two hospitals in each of the five partner countries,
with additional studies of two particular clinical areas in one hospital in each country.
•
The National Leadership Council (NLC) appointed King’s PSSQ, working with Foresight
Partnership, to renew the governance guidance for NHS Boards. The resulting document;
The Healthy NHS Board: Principles for Good Governance, presents key principles
emphasising how Boards ‘add value’ to the organisations they lead, and gives practical
advice on what Boards and their members are expected to do in order to enact good
governance. King’s PSSQ led an extensive review of health care and general governance
literature and guidance, to ensure the guidance was suitably evidence based.
•
We are carrying out a national survey of all NHS trusts in England connected to work on
the Department of Health (DH) funded project Developing Patient and Public Involvement
in Patient Safety and Clinical Governance. The aim of the survey is to gather systematic
evidence on patient and public involvement (PPI) in patient safety activities, with a view to
giving recommendations on how work in this area could be further developed.
•
The Innovations team led a Cochrane review of Midwife-led versus other models of care
for childbearing women. This summarises 11 randomised trials involving over 12,000
women worldwide, and compares outcomes from midwife-led models of care with other
models of care for childbearing women and their infants. Findings have informed the UK
Policy Review of Midwifery – Midwifery 20/20, the UK government Commission on
Nursing and Midwifery, and the maternity quality improvement strategy in Scotland.
Internationally it has informed government reviews of maternity services in the USA, Brazil
and Australia, and policy statements from midwifery associations in the UK, Australia,
USA and Canada.
It is essential that this funding is used as
effectively as possible to provide the research
required for improving the health and care of
the population.
The NIHR budget 2005/06 to 2010/11, and spend with NHS
Contents
1
Welcome to the winter newsletter of the National Institute
for Health Research (NIHR) School for Primary Care
Research. In this edition we are spotlighting a number of
our current research projects, as well as outlining news and
events which have been taking place within the School and
with our collaborators.
2-3
In addition to collaborations with other departments in the
UK, we are taking forward collaborative work with
universities outside the UK We are delighted to welcome
1,200
Welcome from Director Martin Roland
The School a year on
1,000
4-9
School Projects
10
Working with the Primary Care Research
Network
11
Recruitment and retention to clinical trials
800
£ millions
Introduction from the Director
600
400
200
0
We have secured a €3million EU grant to lead a project investigating patient safety in
hospitals across five European countries. Partners include the PSSQ Centre at Imperial
College and colleagues from Sweden, Portugal, Norway and the Netherlands.
12
2005/06
2006/07
2007/08
2008/09
2009/10
2010/11
NIHR budget (revenue and capital)
Planned budget
Total NIHR funding to NHS (estimate)
Planned spend
109
Incorrect use of NIHR identity in publication design
8
applications and success rates
A new responsive project grant
scheme for NIHR raises many questions
including: How high are the hurdles?
Will some regions be favoured? Would
funding disappear for some kinds of
projects or applicants? The level of
demand was particularly hard to
predict. Would there be a large queue
of projects that would be submitted
regardless of scope and fit? Or would
there be a slow build-up as researchers
took a ‘wait and see’ attitude?
“We’ve had no dud topics at
all! The challenge is to
ensure that the research
designs are strong enough to
influence daily practice.”
Chair, RfPB Regional
Funding Committee
How many full applications were considered?
RfPB is undoubtedly popular. The Programme handled over 700 full applications in the
course of its first year, with 1,437 initial registrations of intention (ROIs). Less than half of
the ROIs converted into full proposals in Competition 1. Both new ROIs and full applications
dropped markedly for the subsequent two competitions. Full applications, however, were
still running at almost 200 by Competition 3 (see table below).
ROIs, completed applications and applications seen by committees - RfPB Competitions 1-3
New
ROIs
RfPB application process
ROI (Registration of
intention to submit)
Completed applications
seen by committees
Completed applications
Number
Percentage
(of total ROIs)
Number
Percentage
651
651
278
43%
140
50%
Competition 2
442
811
237
29%
134
57%
Competition 3
344
913
199
22%
122
61%
TOTAL
1437
714
396
1. ROIs remain active for one year; total number of ROIs thus includes ROIs rolled over from the
previous competitions
Getting through the ‘screening’ or preliminary scrutiny stage
•
Many applications were concerned with pure knowledge generation without clear
patient application - they involved basic science research rather than applied
research, which is the stated goal of RfPB
Related to this was a tendency to assume long-term patient benefit rather than to
make a case for patient benefit in the short to medium term.
A Director's Message was placed on the NIHR CCF website after the first competition to
explain the scrutiny stage in more detail; to underline the importance of consulting the
Programme Guidance on matters of scope and patient benefit; and to draw attention to the
fact that there was a helpline available at NIHR CCF.
The position improved by Competition 3 and signs are that it is continuing to do so. Early
stage statistics for Competitions 5 and 6 show over 70% of applications are now
proceeding to full committee.
Preliminary scrutiny
What was the overall success rate of peer reviewed applications?
Overall, there was a one in five success rate for the applications sent to peer review and that
reached the full meetings of the funding committees for the first three competitions (see
table below). Latest figures reveal that 25% of proposals were successful in Competition 4
and 22% in Competition 5.
Peer review
Full committee
Regional Funding Committees want to fund research and will recommend acceptance
subject to amendments. Much committee time is taken up in discussion of whether
conditional offers can be made: whether the necessary modifications can be addressed
without amounting to a fundamental redesign of the study or generating protracted
debate. Very few projects to date have been successful without having to meet some
conditions.
Applications and success rates - RfPB Competitions 1-3
Completed
applications
Final ratification
Notification of
outcome
Applications
accepted at
scrutiny
Funded applications
Number
Percentage
(of applications
peer reviewed)
Competition 1
278
140
25
18%
Competition 2
237
134
27
20%
Competition 3
199
122
27
22%
TOTAL
714
396
79
20%
5
Colour combination, and use of too
many colours and charts
40
NIHR Funding Programmes – how to be successful event
In July of this year, over 100 people
attended the RDSYH event to showcase the
different NIHR funding programmes, and
the support available in the region, at
the Circle in Sheffield.
8
Annual Report 2007
Presentations from NIHR funding streams managed by NETSCC
and CCF were delivered by members of the funding panels with some
general ‘Top Tips’ for putting together a successful application for
NIHR funding.
SDO & HSR Merge to become HS&DR
Speakers gave an overview of the
National Institute of Health Research
(NIHR) infrastructure support
available locally, in the format of the RDSs,
Comprehensive Local Research Networks
and Clinical Trials Units, to support the
development of proposals.
From January
2012 both the
Service Delivery
and Organisation,
and Health Services
Research funding
streams will merge
to become Health
Services Delivery
Research, with
more information
available on
http://www.netscc.
ac.uk/hsdr/




 ­
The National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) Funding Programmes
provide funding along the research trajectory but focus primarily
on applied health research. There are a total of 9 funding schemes
which are managed by either the NIHR Central Coordinating Facility
(CCF) or NIHR Evaluation, Trials and Studies Coordinating Centre
(NETSCC) all of which have their own remits.
The NIHR Service Delivery
and Organisation Programme
Almost half the applications fell at the first hurdle in Competition 1. The average masked
even higher proportions in some regions - notably London. Why was this?
•
What happens to my
application?
Total
1
ROIs
Competition 1
8
Advisor Spotlight
I joined RDS-YH as an adviser and proposal
developer last summer, working closely with
Sheffield Clinical Trials Research Unit. In the
last year I have worked with over 30 clients
who have submitted bids to the full range
of NIHR funding streams. Prior to joining
the RDS, I was a full time Study Manager
with experience of managing large-scale
Randomised Controlled Trials in both Clinical
and Community settings. My own research
interests are in Health Behaviour Change and
the development and delivery of Complex
Interventions.
Currently, my time is divided between advising
RDS clients who are developing research
proposals and continuing my role as study
manager on the NIHR HTA-funded Booster
trial. Booster is a Public Health trial spanning
the length and breadth of Sheffield, which
aims to assess the effectiveness of different
types of Booster interventions to help people
who have recently become more physically
active stay active.
Many RDS advisers have specific expertise,
e.g. statistics, health economics or PPI, and
my practical experience of managing trials
complements this. Frequently, clients come
to RDS with a great research idea and a
host of collaborators but the team lacks the
practical experience of delivering a large scale
multi-centre study. This often means that
they have unrealistic expectations about key
elements of the study, such as recruitment.
Working with clients to develop a realistic
research plan with distinct work packages
and a clear management structure from the
outset produces both a stronger application
for funding and a more successful research
project.
Dr Emma Scott, Research Fellow
The other key area I advise on is developing
complex interventions, in line with the
MRC Complex Interventions Framework
(2000, 2008). During its evolution, a
complex intervention, such as an initiative
to reduce problem drinking, moves through
several defined stages of development and
testing. Each of these stages requires clear
methodology and is suited to different funding
streams. Helping clients understanding and
clearly demonstrate what stage their research
is at maximises the
chances of securing
funding and moving the
intervention closer to use
in everyday practice.
For further advice on developing a complex
intervention or for help with planning your
research project, please contact: rds-yh@
sheffield.ac.uk or visit our website to book an
appointment: www.rds-yh.nihr.ac.uk.
The NIHR Research Design Service for Yorkshire & the Humber
NIHR Research Design Service Charter – Helping us to help you
We will:
We will not:
We expect that investigators will:
š
š Help develop projects where there is no
š
š
š
š
Offer professional advice on developing a grant
application, free of charge
Allocate a Research Design Service lead to
provide support and guidance
Provide feedback in a timely manner using
face-to-face meetings or other forms of
communication, as appropriate
Treat all our discussions and the information
provided with appropriate confidentiality
š Facilitate the identification of a suitable funding
intention of submitting an application for peer
review to a recognised funding stream
š Support applications that are not research, eg
audit, evaluation and satisfaction surveys
š Provide supervision or informal support for
students
š Carry out any of the research
š
Approach us in a timely manner
Acquaint themselves with the scope and
eligibility of the targeted funding stream
š Discuss their proposal with all of their research
team before submitting it to us to review
š Consider our advice carefully
š Discuss any wording in an application which
describes the support which RDS has given
š Facilitate the identification of suitable
The NIHR Research Design Service for Yorkshire & the Humber provides access to a range of expertise in research design
including advice on patient and public involvement, research synthesis, study design and methodology (quantitative and
qualitative), statistics and health economics.
š Give you access to a range of research support
All documents submitted to funding bodies remain the responsibility of the applicants.
stream for your project
collaborators
materials and signpost to further helpful
resources
Sheffield:
rds-yh@sheffield.ac.uk
0114 222 0828
Leeds:
rds-yh@leeds.ac.uk
0113 343 1477
The advice and guidance they provide is aimed at increasing the quality of your funding application.
York:
rds-yh@york.ac.uk
01904 321 726
www.rds-yh.nihr.ac.uk
www.rds-yh.nihr.ac.uk
Use of too many images
Use of individual logo
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Publishing research findings
The NIHR continues to gain recognition for funding high-quality research and for facilitating collaborative
and multi-centred research undertaken by the NHS, academia, charities and the life-sciences industry.
Findings from all NIHR-funded research should be published in an appropriate form.
Submitting research publications
Principal investigators/lead researchers should refer to their funding contract to ensure that they comply
with the terms and conditions on report publication policy.
When submitting a paper, article or report for publication it is essential that the NIHR is acknowledged
appropriately to maximise awareness of the impact of the research funded by the NIHR, nationally and
internationally. Full funding data helps track research from funding awards through to published output.
Missing or incomplete acknowledgements hinder citations in clinical guidelines for research impact
evaluation – see BMJ Open (http://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/2/2/e000897.full).
When submitting a paper or article for publication, please ensure that:
●●
●●
●●
●●
the NIHR’s contribution is acknowledged in full
a copy of the paper/article is sent to the relevant coordinating centre 28 days before it is due to
be published
a copy of the final manuscript of any research papers supported in whole or in part by the NIHR is
deposited with UK PubMed Central upon acceptance for publication, to be made freely available
as soon as possible and in any event within six months of the journal publisher’s official date of
final publication. See the NIHR website
(www.nihr.ac.uk/research/Pages/Research_Open_Access_Policy_Statement.aspx).
the principal award holder submits an end-of-project report within 14 days of the end of the study,
in accordance with the research contract.
Please note that although the Department of Health funds the NIHR, the Department
of Health should not be named as the funder. The NIHR must always be accredited as
the funder.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
41
Acknowledging funding and affiliations in scientific journals
When publishing papers, articles and reports, authors must acknowledge all types of NIHR funding,
support and affiliations such as:
●●
research programme funding
●●
whole or part funding by research centres or units
●●
use of clinical research facilities, centres or units
●●
fellowship awards
●●
professional training awards
●●
Senior Investigator awards
●●
Research Professorship awards.
Studies supported by the Clinical Research Network should be encouraged to acknowledge the support
provided by the relevant network.
The NIHR logotype
Research articles, papers and reports must not use the NIHR logotype, but must use a statement
acknowledging funding/support together with the NIHR disclaimer.
Disclaimer
The independent nature of the research and its intellectual property provenance must be emphasised by
carrying the following disclaimer:
This article/paper/report presents independent research funded by the National Institute for
Health Research (NIHR). The views expressed are those of the author(s) and not necessarily
those of the NHS, the NIHR or the Department of Health.
Use of research findings by the NIHR and the Department of Health
The NIHR and the Department of Health reserve the right to use data or other material from projects that
it funds for policy development and publicity activities.
The NIHR and the Department of Health may publicise the outcome of NIHR-funded research studies
through its website, in publications and in press releases where appropriate.
42
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Press releases
There should be a proactive approach to issuing press releases to showcase NIHR-funded research. It is
important that the NIHR receives proper recognition as the research funder, both for transparency to
account for spending public money for the public good, and maximise awareness of the impact of
research to all our stakeholders.
Researchers will often plan to issue a press release following a funding contract and/or at the same time
as publishing a research article or paper. As well as complying with the host organisation’s and other
funders’ media policies, the following process should be used.
Notice of a planned press release
At least 28 days’ notice of an intention to issue a press release must be given to the relevant coordinating
centre before publication, together with a copy of the research paper/report where this is a contracted
condition.
The draft press release must be sent to the relevant coordinating centre 14 days before the planned issue
date, including any press releases to be issued by the publisher. All embargos will be respected, as the
NIHR is internal to the process.
Acknowledging the NIHR in a press release
Acknowledgement of NIHR research funding, or support provided by NIHR facilties, should be clear and
prominent in every press release, ideally in the first or second paragraph. The first time the NIHR is
referred to, it should be spelt out in full, followed by the abbreviation in brackets.
Examples:
The study was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Research for
Patient Benefit Programme.
The research was supported by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Oxford
Biomedical Research Centre.
The study team acknowledges the study delivery support given by the Medicines for
Children Clinical Research Network.
The press release should also carry the NIHR’s Note for Editors, see below. The NIHR logotype should
never be used in a press release issued by a researcher or research team, and should carry a disclaimer,
see Disclaimer (p42).
NIHR Identity Guidelines
43
Jointly funded research
Where research has been jointly funded by the NIHR with another funding partner, the NIHR must receive
due acknowledgement in any press release issued by the funding partner. A copy of the intended release
must be provided to the relevant coordinating centre in advance of publication.
Research funded by others but supported by the NIHR
Research that has been funded by other organisations, such as charities, research councils and the
life-sciences industry, and which has received support from either the NIHR Clinical Research Network or
infrastructure should be encouraged to acknowledge the NIHR.
Including a Department of Health quote
Depending on the significance of the research findings and/or announcement, the Secretary of State
for Health, another Department of Health Minister or the Chief Medical Officer may want to provide
a quote. Where this is the case, the relevant co‑ordinating centre communications team will work with
the Department of Health to confirm quotes.
Department of Health press releases
The Department of Health may, on occasion, decide to issue a press release about NIHR-funded research
that is particularly significant, or where a Department of Health Minister wants to welcome the research
and comment on the findings. In these cases, the relevant co‑ordinating centre will work with the lead
researcher or the communication lead on the press release, and/or releases if two or more are to be
issued about the same subject by a number of institutions.
Notes for editors
Notes for editors are used at the end of a press release to provide more detailed information about key
points in the release and to position the release in its broader context.
The following note should be used when issuing a press release which contains any information about
the NIHR or its work:
The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) is funded by the Department of Health to
improve the health and wealth of the nation through research. Since its establishment in
April 2006, the NIHR has transformed research in the NHS. It has increased the volume of
applied health research for the benefit of patients and the public, driven faster translation
of basic science discoveries into tangible benefits for patients and the economy, and
developed and supported the people who conduct and contribute to applied health
research. The NIHR plays a key role in the Government’s strategy for economic growth,
attracting investment by the life-sciences industries through its world-class infrastructure
for health research. Together, the NIHR people, programmes, centres of excellence and
systems represent the most integrated health research system in the world. For further
information, visit the NIHR website (www.nihr.ac.uk).
44
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Additional information about the specific NIHR initiative or programme issuing the press release should
also be provided.
Using the NIHR logotype
When a press release is issued by NIHR’s coordinating centres, Office for Clinical Research Infrastructure,
INVOLVE, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, Horizon Scanning Centre, RDS and Clinical Research
Network, the press release should include, if possible, the NIHR logotype positioned in the top right-hand
corner of the release. The NIHR disclaimer (p42) should not be used.
Researchers in receipt of research project, programme grants or training and fellowship awards must
not use the logotype when issuing a press release, but must include the disclaimer (p42) when issuing
a press release.
Example of a press release issued by a coordinating center
News release – embargoed until 23:30 hrs (UK time), 22 December
New infrastructure to develop healthcare technologies and interventions for the NHS
23 January 2012 – Clinicians and researchers are invited to bid for infrastructure funding to support
collaborations between the NHS and industry to lead to the development of medical devices and healthcare
technologies.
The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) will establish Healthcare Technology Co-operatives (HTCs) to
address clinical areas or themes of high morbidity and unmet need for NHS patients. The aim is to produce new
technologies that improve treatment and quality of life.
This new scheme builds on learning from a pilot scheme that funded two HTCs from 2008. Their innovations
include a dignity bidet commode developed for stroke survivors which won an NHS Innovation Award in 2009,
and the APPEAR and SMART surgical procedures and instrumentation for bowel surgery which was awarded
the prestigious Cutlers’ Surgical Award in 2011.
Led by a clinical director, each NIHR HTC will involve multidisciplinary teams, working collaboratively with
industry, patient groups, academic researchers and charities. HTCs will be expected to build networks with a
broad range of stakeholders including the NIHR infrastructure and to work closely with the NIHR Office for
Clinical Research Infrastructure (NOCRI).
Professor Dame Sally C. Davies, Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Adviser at the Department of
Health said:
“The National Institute for Health Research Healthcare Technology Co-operatives competition announced today
will help to identify clinical issues from a front line service perspective and devise technology-based solutions to
address them. These centres of expertise will act as a catalyst for the development of much-needed new
medical devices, healthcare technologies and/or technology-dependent interventions.”
NIHR HTCs will operate within the evolving NHS innovation landscape and the implementation of the NHS Chief
Executive’s review: “Innovation Health and Wealth – accelerating adoption and diffusion in the NHS”. They will
be expected to engage with the proposed Academic Health Science Networks and local showcase hospital
programmes, where appropriate, as they develop. The closing date for submission of the Pre-Qualifying
Questionnaire by NHS Trusts in England is 19 April 2012 at 5pm.
- Ends Notes to Editors:
Information on how to apply for NIHR Funding for HTCs can be found on the NIHR CCF website at:
http://www.ccf.nihr.ac.uk/Pages/HTCCompetition.aspx .
About the NIHR
The National Institute for Health Research provides the framework through which the research staff and research
infrastructure of the NHS in England is positioned, maintained and managed as a national research facility. The NIHR
provides the NHS with the support and infrastructure it needs to conduct first-class research funded by the Government and
its partners alongside high-quality patient care, education and training. Its aim is to support outstanding individuals (both
leaders and collaborators), working in world class facilities (both NHS and university), conducting leading edge research
focused on the needs of patients. http://www.nihr.ac.uk/
For further information please contact:
NIHR Central Commissioning Facility
Email: georgia.galegrant@nihr-ccf.org.uk
Direct dial: 020 8843 8073
NIHR Identity Guidelines
45
Stationery
When producing stationery you need to ensure that your materials support the NIHR identity.
The majority of NIHR initiatives are based in NHS organisations or academic institutions.
No matter where you are based, stationery needs to be designed following NHS branding guidelines.
NIHR initiatives using their local NHS organisation logo should ensure that the first line of the address has
the title of the NIHR initiative, written in full. A relationship statement should be added to the bottom.
17mm
13mm
Anytown Hospital
NHS Trust
8.5mm
17mm
National Institute for Health Research
[Any name] Biomedical Research Centre
1 Fiction Road
Countytown
Anyshire
L12 3AB
Example of an NIHR
initiative letterhead
using a local NHS
organisation logo
Tel: 01234 567890
Fax: 01234 098765
Web: www.ourwebsite.co.uk
The National Institute for Health Research [Any name] Research Centre is a partnership
between the [Anytown} Hospital NHS Trust and the University of [Any name].
17mm
9mm
NIHR stationery
If you are creating stationery using the NIHR logotype, you must follow the guidance below and must
not add any other logos or design styles.
A professional printer can prepare the computer files needed to print your stationery correctly, ensuring it
is of a consistent standard. However, whenever possible e-letters should be sent rather than hard copies.
46
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Printing the NIHR logotype
Relationship/partnership statement
You must use the NIHR logotype original artwork,
and must not alter it in any way. Across all your
stationery materials, the NHS logo should be
reproduced in NHS Blue (Pantone® 300) or,
where this is not possible, black – see NIHR
logotype files (p12)
A relationship/partnership statement should be
included at the bottom, to acknowledge all
partner organisations (p24).
Letterheads
NIHR logotype
On letterheads, the NIHR logotype size is
measured by the height of the NHS logo.
This should be 8.5mm. Position the NIHR logotype
in the top right-hand corner of your letterhead.
This designated area must not be used for
other logos, identities or slogans of any kind.
All information included in this area should
always be printed in black.
Paper stock
You should print all letterheads on white paper
with a weight of no less than 80gsm.
17mm
13mm
Coordinating centre or initiative name
8.5mm
The first line of the address should be the title
or name of the coordinating centre or initiative.
The specifications are as follows:
32mm
Typeface: Frutiger Bold
Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland
Cancer Research Network
NHS University Hospitals of Leicester
Knighton Street
Outpatients Building
Ground Floor
Leicester Royal Infirmary
Leicester LE1 5WW
Tel: 0116 2586318
Fax: 0116 2587280
Colour: NHS Blue (Pantone® 300) or black
Size: 9 point type
Leading: 11 point
Address, telephone, fax, email and website
You should allow one standard line space
between your address and the telephone number,
fax number, email and website. The specifications
are as follows:
Typeface: Frutiger Roman
Colour: black
The Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland Cancer Research Network is based at the
NHS University Hospitals of Leicester and is part of the National Institute for Health Research
17mm
9mm
Size: 9 point type
Leading: 11 point
NIHR Identity Guidelines
47
Compliment slips
Reverse side
NIHR logotype size
The reverse side of your compliment slip can
include additional information, such as a
relationship/partnership statement, directions
to your premises and/or a map of the area.
On compliment slips, the NIHR logotype size
is measured by the height of the NHS logo.
This should be 8.5mm.
The guidance for name and address, typeface,
colour, size etc is the same as for letterheads,
specified on the previous page.
This additional content should be printed in
black using Frutiger typeface, in a maximum size
of 11 point.
With compliments line
The specifications for the ‘With compliments’
line are as follows:
Typeface: Frutiger Italic
Colour: black
Size: 11 point type
Example:
17mm
17mm
13mm
8.5mm
32mm
With Compliments
Trainees Coordinating Centre
Leeds Innovation Centre
103 Clarendon Road
Leeds
LS2 9DF
Tel: 0113 346 6260
Fax: 0113 346 6272
Email: nihrtcc@nihrtcc.org.uk
Web: www.nihrtcc.nhs.uk
9mm
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
Job title
Business cards
The measurements for the positioning of text and
the NHS logotype are based on a card measuring
85mm x 55mm.
NIHR logotype size
The specifications for job titles are as follows:
Typeface: Frutiger Roman
Colour: black
Size: 6 point type
On business cards, the NIHR logotype size is
measured by the height of the NHS logo.
This should be 4.25mm.
Coordinating centre or initiative name
The specifications for unit or department names
are as follows:
Name
The specifications for the name are as follows:
Typeface: Frutiger Bold
Colour: NHS Blue (Pantone® 300) or black
Typeface: Frutiger Bold
Size: 6.5 point type
Colour: NHS Blue (Pantone® 300) or black
Address and contact details
Size: 9 point
9mm
The specifications for address and contact details
are as follows:
9mm
7mm
Typeface: Frutiger Roman (titles in Frutiger Italic)
x=4.25mm
Maximum area
for personal details
Colour: black
Dr Lisa Cotterill
Director
Tel: 0113 346 6269
Mob: 07768 966021
Fax: 0113 346 6272
Email: lisa.cotterill@nihrtcc.org
Web: www.nihrtcc.nhs.uk
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Trainees Coordinating Centre
Leeds Innovation Centre
103 Clarendon Road
Leeds
LS2 9DF
27.5mm
Size: 6.5 point type (9 point on cards for people
with visual impairments)
Other information
x
The reverse side of your compliment slip and
business cards can include a relationship/
partnership statement. This additional content
should be printed in black using Frutiger typeface
in a maximum size of 9 point.
49
Signage
Signage or plaques for NIHR coordinating centres,
research facilities, centres and units is important,
as it is the first thing that people see when
arriving at research services and facilities.
NIHR exclusive signage
The panel should contain the NIHR logotype
positioned top right, with the NIHR coordinating
centre’s name centred in black text.
No matter where you are based, signage needs to
be designed following NHS branding guidelines,
which do not allow individual NIHR initiative logos
to be created or used.
Using the NIHR logotype
All signage or plaques, whether produced in
metal, glass or acrylic, should wherever possible,
have a plain background with the NIHR logotype
positioned top right.
Central Commissioning Facility
Detailed guidance on how to use the NIHR
logotype can be found in the NIHR logotype
section (p9).
50
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Partnership with non-NHS organisation
signage
Partnership with other NHS
organisations signage
Signage shared with another partner organisation
should position the NIHR logotype top right, with
the partner logo top left. Alternatively the partner
logo can be placed in the bottom right hand
corner.
The NIHR logotype cannot be used together
with another NHS organisation logo on signage
or plaques.
If there are several partners it is advised to place
all logos at the bottom, with the NIHR logotype
placed bottom right.
[Any name]
Experimental Cancer Medicine Centre
NIHR Identity Guidelines
The NIHR logotype should be positioned top right,
with the NIHR initiative name centred in black
text, and all relevant partners listed underneath.
[Any name] Biomedical Research
Centre
A partnership between
[Any name] Hospital Foundation NHS Trust
and
University of [Any name]
51
Events and conferences
NIHR-funded events
A range of external stakeholder-facing events are held by the NIHR each year. Outward-facing events
paid for through NIHR funding should only be held to meet a specific business objective and must be
able to demonstrate value for money. The need and purpose should be agreed with the relevant
coordinating centre, which will liaise with the Department of Health when appropriate.
Once approved, all external stakeholder events should be branded NIHR. Please ensure all materials used
for the event, including signage, exhibitions, publications, presentations and posters, comply with the
guidance provided in the relevant sections of this document and that the NIHR logotype is used in
accordance with the guidance on positioning, exclusion zone, and size (p10-11).
Promotional advertising should follow the Advertising guidance (p59).
Partnership events
The NIHR sometimes hosts events in partnership with others. When working in partnership, the NIHR’s
logotype should be used in equal proportion to the logos of its partners.
Where the NIHR is the lead partner, in accordance with the NHS brand, the logotype should be placed
at the top right corner of all materials. Where the NIHR is a secondary partner there is more flexibility.
The NIHR logotype can be used in an appropriate comparative position to partner logo(s) on conference
and event materials.
Detailed guidance on how to use the NIHR logotype when working with partner organisations can
be found in the Using the NIHR logotype with non-NHS partner brands section (p13).
Partnership events with other NHS organisations
The NHS branding policy states that the NHS national lozenge may appear only once on a
communication spread to ensure the impact of the NHS logo is not diluted by duplication. This means
that the NIHR logotype must not be used in conjunction with another NHS logo on any materials
produced for events and conferences.
This applies to:
●●
●●
an NIHR event held in partnership with an NHS organisation
an NIHR research initiative, such as a Biomedical Research Unit, which is hosted in an NHS
organisation, where the logo of the host organisation cannot be used alongside that of the
NIHR logotype.
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
Detailed guidance on how to use the NIHR logotype when working with NHS organisations can be found
in the Using the NIHR logotype with other NHS organisations section (p14).
Stands at external events
The NIHR, collectively or individually, is frequently invited to have a corporate stand at the many
conferences organised around the country. The NIHR is not resourced to attend numerous events,
especially where the link with our core business, research, is tenuous. These invitations should be
declined.
The exception to this is where:
●●
an NIHR spokesperson is named on the programme, or
●●
an NIHR workshop is organised as part of the conference proceedings, or
●●
there is a robust business case for funding a stand,
such as for the National Cancer Research Institute or
the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence
conferences.
In the cases listed above, at least one NIHR representative
should be available, with a range of relevant information,
to discuss business issues with delegates.
Where an external conference is assessed to be of interest
to our research community, NIHR coordinating centres
may wish to cascade the information to their researchers
so that as individuals they can a) attend and represent
their research if that is their wish and b) act as an
ambassador for the NIHR.
3
Faculty
Exhibition materials
Exhibition materials should illustrate the NIHR’s purpose
and values, as well as key messages.
Exhibition banners and panels
●●
●●
●●
The NIHR logotype should be positioned top right and
comply with the guidance on size (p11).
The NIHR filmstrip can be used to create impact,
although its use is optional.
Copy for exhibition banners should be kept to an
absolute minimum.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
53
Posters
Many types of posters are produced by the NIHR – for example, to provide information about services, to
recruit patients for research studies or to present research findings. The positioning of the NIHR logotype
on posters needs to be considered carefully as use of the logotype in the top right-hand corner implies
the NIHR ‘owns’ or endorses the information presented.
Information posters
●●
●●
●●
●●
Corporate information posters produced by NIHR coordinating centres and initiatives should use the
logotype positioned in the top right-hand corner. The logotype must comply with the guidance on size
(p11).
The NIHR filmstrip can be used to create impact, although its use is optional.
Copy for posters should be written for your target audience. Ensure you present key messages in clear
and accessible language.
Information needs to be clear and simple to read, with a text size big enough to be read from a meter
away. Information overload will lead people to bypass posters.
3
3
National Institute for Health Research,
Research Design Service
for the East of England
Working with NHS and social care researchers to develop
high quality research proposals to improve patient care
We offer support and advice on research:
A network of five Universities and four
● design
NHS trusts across the East of England
● methodology
offering breadth and depth of
● applications
methodological expertise.
Tel: 01206 874856
E-mail: rdseoe@essex.ac.uk
Web: www.RDS-eoe.nihr.ac.uk
Research posters
Research posters are an effective and important way to show research findings at workshops and
conferences. Research posters can include the NIHR logotype, but not in the top right-hand corner.
If the research has been funded by an NIHR programme, the NIHR logotype should be positioned bottom
right, or in another suitable position depending on the design, and must include a statement
acknowledging funding together with a disclaimer, e.g.
This is a summary of independent research funded by the National Institute for Health
Research (NIHR)’s [name of research programme] Programme. The views expressed are those
of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the NHS, the NIHR or the Department of Health.
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
If another NHS organisation logo is used, only the statement acknowledging NIHR funding together with
a disclaimer (p42), should be used.
See also Additional information for researchers (p73).
Public speaking
When speaking publicly about NIHR-funded or NIHR-supported research, for example to the media,
or at seminars and conferences, researchers should ensure that they always acknowledge the NIHR
as a funder. Programme funded research projects should be formally described as ‘NIHR funded’.
Presentations
NIHR PowerPoint presentation templates have been designed in the various work stream colours and are
available to download for use by the relevant coordinating centres and initiatives from the NIHR portal
(https://portal.nihr.ac.uk/welcome/Identity/Pages/PowerpointTemplates.aspx).
Industry
Title of presentation
Systems
Name of organisation
Name of presenter
Title of presentation
Patient and
Public Awareness
Name of organisation
Name of presenter
Title of presentation
Faculty
14/03/2008
Name of organisation
Name of presenter
Title of presentation
Infrastructure
Name of organisation
Programmes
14/03/2008
Name of presenter
Title of presentation
14/03/2008
Name of organisation
Name of presenter
Title of presentation
14/03/2008
Name of organisation
Name of presenter
14/03/2008
14/03/2008
NIHR Identity Guidelines
55
Creating your own slides
Using the NIHR logotype
Corporate NIHR slides should always include the NIHR logotype positioned top right, in the correct size.
Detailed guidance on how to use the NIHR logotype can be found in the NIHR logotype section (p9).
Working with non-NHS partners
When presentations need to reflect working with partner organisations, the NIHR logotype should be
positioned top right and the partner logo top left.
If there are several partners it is best to place all logos on only the first slide, and use plain slides for the
rest of the presentation.
The value of Health Research
26 January 2012
Partnership with other NHS organisations
The NHS branding policy states that the NHS national lozenge may appear only once on a single page.
Therefore, if an NHS organisation logo is used, you should not use the NIHR logotype on the same slide.
Several options are possible:
Option 1:
Use the NIHR logotype positioned top right on all
slides, and the name of the initiative positioned
top left, listing all partners on the opening slide.
The partner logos can be included on a plain
closing slide.
[Any name]
Biomedical Research Centre
Translational Clinical Research
A partnership between
[Any name] Hospital Trust and
the University of [Any name]
56
15 March 2012
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Option 2:
Use the NHS organisation logo on all the slides, and add the full name of the NIHR initiative positioned
top left. Provide a funding statement giving details of the NIHR funding or award on the opening slide,
listing any partners.
NIHR [Any name]
Biomedical Research Centre
Any-name Hospital
NHS Trust
Translational Clinical Research
The [Any name] Biomedical Research Centre is funded by the National Institute for
Health Research (NIHR) and is partnership between [Any name] Hospital Trust
and the University of [Any name].
Duplication of the NHS logo
Duplication of the NHS logo is only allowed for the purposes of graphic display. For example, you can
present covers of reports that feature the NIHR logotype on an NIHR presentation slide.
Annual Reports:
NIHR Identity Guidelines
57
Merchandising
We do not support the production of NIHR merchandise or promotional items.
Our reputation as a global leader at the forefront of comparative health research has grown, and
continues to grow, because we are increasingly able to demonstrate that the research funded by the
NIHR, and delivered through the NIHR, has resulted in pan-NHS service improvements, significant cost
savings and an increase in the quality of patient care.
As a publicly funded body, the NIHR must justify the investment it receives from taxpayers.
Allocating resources to merchandise does not advance our reputation with the national or global
health research community and does not support our goal of improving the health and wealth of
the nation through research.
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
Advertising
Job adverts
Job adverts will vary greatly depending on the description of the post to be advertised, the requirements
of the university or hospital where the post is to be sited, and the requirements of the publication where
the advert is to be posted.
All NIHR post holders are employed by their host organisation. Consequently, adverts for NIHR jobs
should use the host university or hospital branding. The NIHR logotype may be used in the advert,
following the NIHR logotype guidelines on size and exclusion zone (see p10-11), positioned in the
bottom right-hand corner. All posts should be advertised as ‘National Institute for Health Research xxx’,
where ‘xxx’ is the name of the post.
A simple statement about the NIHR should be used either within the body of the advert or positioned
as a footnote to explain its remit. For example:
The National Institute for Health Research provides the framework through which
the research staff and research infrastructure of the NHS in England are positioned,
maintained and managed as a national research facility.
When a job is advertised in partnership with one or more organisations, the guidance on pages 13 and
14 should be applied.
Advertising NIHR events
Across the NIHR, a number of stakeholder events are held every year. Events should only be held to meet
a specific business objective and the need and purpose should be agreed with the relevant coordinating
centre, which will liaise with the Department of Health when appropriate.
All events should be branded as NIHR using the advice provided in these guidelines.
Advertising others’ events
The NIHR, as a publicly funded organisation, should not advertise or promote events held by other
organisations through any of its media other than when working in partnership, or if the NIHR is
represented – for example, if the NIHR is exhibiting, or has a speaker and/or a workshop.
Campaigns
Campaigns are a form of advertising. Any proposed campaigns must be fit for purpose and be able to
demonstrate value for money. Proposals must be agreed with the relevant coordinating centre and run
as part of the NIHR umbrella. No new brands should be developed.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
59
Marketing
NIHR initiatives may, on occasion, need to carry out marketing activities to fulfil business objectives.
All proposed marketing campaigns should be able to demonstrate that they meet a specific business
objective and provide value for money, and should be agreed with the relevant coordinating centre
before the proposal is progressed. Any marketing activities must be run under the NIHR umbrella and no
new brands should be developed.
Where an NIHR office has been established by the Department of Health with the express purpose of
marketing the NIHR to a specific sector or stakeholder group, an identifying design may be established
and used in stakeholder communication materials alongside correct use of the NIHR identity guidance.
All marketing activities aimed at the life-sciences industry should be discussed with the NIHR Office for
Clinical Research Infrastructure prior to initiation, and will need to be approved by the Department of
Health. See Contacts (p77).
Funding and training opportunities
Calls for proposals and funding awards are another form of advertising. These funding and training
opportunities must clearly show that the NIHR is the funder. The NIHR logotype should be used in the
top right-hand position, in accordance with the guidance on size and exclusion zone (p10-11). The full
name of the research programme or training award should always be written in full.
“The NIHR Invention for Innovation (NIHR i4i) programme invites research proposals to ... “
“The NIHR In-Practice Fellowship offers academic training to fully-qualified General
Practitioners and General Dental Practitioners who are in NHS practice in England.“
Calls for proposals
The NIHR Health Technology Assessment (HTA) programme produces independent research
information about the effectiveness, costs and broader impact of healthcare treatments and tests
for those who plan, provide or receive care in the NHS.
Research proposals are sought on the following topics:
Primary research - Two Stage outline to full proposal
12/17 Barriers and facilitators to uptake of vaccinations in travelling communities
12/19 Ultrasound elastography in the diagnosis of thyroid cancer 12/21 Communication therapy
post-stroke
12/22 Photodynamic therapy for recurrent head and neck cancer
12/23 Intradialytic exercise in renal failure
12/24 UVB light combined with topical corticosteroid for treatment of vitiligo
12/25 Planned delivery for pre-eclampsia between 34 and 37 weeks of gestation
Evidence synthesis - Single Stage full proposal
12/27 Art therapy for people with non-psychotic mental disorders
The deadline for submissions is 1pm on 2 July 2012. Please note that applications received after
this deadline will not be considered. Application forms and all associated documents are
available on the HTA programme website.
For any further enquiries please contact the HTA Commissioning team: 023 8059 5621 or
htacmsng@southampton.ac.uk
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
Videos
Videos can be an effective way of communicating with target audiences but may not always be the most
appropriate medium to use. They take time and effort to produce, and can be more expensive than other
means of communication. All planned videos should first demonstrate how they meet a business need
and represent value for money before plans are progressed.
Videos about NIHR services and research activities that are correctly branded and carry appropriate
acknowledgements can be posted on the YouTube NIHR tv channel (www.youtube.com/NIHRtv) once
approved by the relevant coordinating centre.
The YouTube NIHR tv channel should be configured to disable the comments and ratings features unless
otherwise agreed with the relevant coordinating centre.
Using the NIHR logotype
Wherever possible the NIHR logotype should be positioned top right, in an appropriate size for the
screen, on the opening frame. Ensure you use the NIHR logotype EPS file.
The name of the NIHR initiative producing the video should also be clearly posted on the opening frame.
If this is not possible, it should be placed on the closing frame alongside a funding statement.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
61
4
Language, format and
punctuation style guide
This section is intended to provide a guide to best practice and good principles for writing.
Language
Use short, clear sentences and simple language. Plain English helps information be understood by a
wide audience. Cut out unnecessary words. Readers may know nothing or very little about a subject.
Make sure they don’t have to read a sentence twice.
Be explicit
Don’t assume knowledge is shared. Explain acronyms and abbreviations by writing them out in full the
first time you use them. Do not use jargon and buzz words unless they are commonly used outside the
NIHR.
Know your audience
Think about what you are trying to tell them. How do they understand information? What will be
meaningful to them? Provide clear and useful information.
Guide your reader
Present your information in a logical structure. It must make sense to the specific audience.
Be consistent
Use language consistently, e.g. the descriptions and names of specific policies, procedures and
organisations, the style of writing, the structure of the pages and the punctuation.
Make your pages easy to scan
Use meaningful page and chapter titles, subheadings, phrases and bullet points. Introduce one idea per
paragraph and use an engaging opening sentence.
Be clear
Be sure that if using the term ‘we’ the reader will know which team, organisation or group of
organisations you are referring to.
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
Be accurate
Check all your facts.
●●
Who? What? Where? When? Why?
●●
Dates and spellings.
●●
Names of people, places, organisations.
●●
Final versions of documents.
●●
Spell check your document.
Dates
Aways be clear about the timing of key activities. Undated information is misleading. State specific months
and years. Do not use general terms such as ‘recently’, ‘last year’ or ‘latest’. Information dates quickly.
Clutter
Avoid overuse of brackets, dashes, commas and semicolons. Too much punctuation can clutter up text
and make it difficult for visually impaired people to read. Stick to short, clear sentences to reduce clutter.
Proofread
Always proofread. If possible also ask a colleague to read through what you have written. A fresh set of
eyes will pick up any mistakes or missing information. Colleagues who work in other teams may be more
objective than someone who knows the subject area. Read aloud, as this will help you hear if the
structure of a sentence or a piece of information is clear. Reading aloud highlights unnecessary words
and unclear sentence structure.
Format
Our house style helps present effective written communications that are easy to read and consistent
in style.
We have a general house style for all written communications with variations for printed or online
content.
Left justification
Always left justify your document. Never use full justification; this makes documents hard to read.
Exception: document titles may be centred.
Paragraphs
Insert one line space between paragraphs.
Bullet points
Use standard round bullet points.
Bullet points that follow a colon should start in lower case, as should each subsequent point. Do not use
semicolons or commas at the end of each point within a series of bullet points. Use a full stop at the end
of the last point.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
63
Bullet points that follow a header or a full stop or question mark at the end of a sentence or paragraph
should start with a capital letter, as should each subsequent point. Use a full stop at the end of
each point.
Sub-bullet points should be further indented. Semicolons or commas can be used at the end of
sub‑bullet points, with a full stop at the end of the last sub-bullet.
Strap lines
Do not use a full stop at the end of a strap line.
Capitals
Capitals can seem LOUD and AGGRESSIVE. Keep capitals to a minimum.
Use title case rather than upper case for page title, page heading, official document title, or name of a
place, person or organisation.
Use title case for specific job titles, e.g. Senior Clinical Trials Coordinator. Generic job titles should not be
capitalised, e.g. the research administrators.
Write general terms, such as primary care trusts, in lower case.
Use capitals for a specific primary care trust, e.g. Newcastle Primary Care Trust.
‘Government’ should be capitalised, e.g. ‘The Government announced yesterday’. But it should be lower
case when pluralised, e.g. ‘governments from around the world’.
Regions should be written in lower case, e.g. northern England, south west London.
Research studies should be capitalised, e.g. Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Lung Nodules.
Addresses
Spell out all names in full in addresses presented in letterheads and contact details in documents and
publications. Acronyms should not be used under any circumstances. For example:
Sally Beck
Information and Engagement Manager
Research & Development
Department of Health
Richmond House, Area 124,
79 Whitehall
London, SW1A 2NS
Tel. 020 7210 5730
Email sally.beck@dh.gsi.gov.uk
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
Email signatures
Spell out all names in full, without acronyms, and provide the full address, all telephone contact numbers
and the full email and website address:
John Smith
External Relations
National Institute for Health Research
Evaluation, Trials and Studies Coordinating Centre
Alpha House, University of Southampton Science Park
Southampton SO16 7NS
Tel. 023 8059 4309
Mob. 07777 111000
Email j.smith@southampton.ac.uk
www.netscc.ac.uk
Follow Official NIHR on twitter
Dates
Dates are structured 5 March 2012. Do not use th, st, rd or nd.
Use ‘from’ and ‘to’ or ‘between’ to describe date ranges, e.g. from July to November 2011 or between
2008 and 2009, except when referring to short date ranges such as 24–26 August.
Dates must be used to demonstrate the timeliness of the content and not the date the information
was published.
An oblique should be used for dates, e.g. 16/09/2010.
Age
When stating someone’s age alongside their name it should be written as: John Smith, 70 years old or
John Smith, in his 70s.
Decades
Write decades in numerals followed by an ‘s’, e.g. 1970s.
Decades can be abbreviated, e.g. the 60s, the 90s, but not ‘60s, ‘90s.
The possessive form of decades should include an apostrophe, e.g. 70’s style.
NIHR Identity Guidelines
65
References
Use the Vancouver system for referencing publications, including in footnotes, as follows:
●●
●●
●●
●●
Publications with a personal author:
Author(s) name. Publication title. Publisher. Year of publication. Edition number. Page numbers.
Corporate publications:
Publication title, publisher. Year of publication. Edition number. Page numbers.
Referencing within a sentence:
Use brackets in a sentence when referencing a chapter or pages in the same publication,
e.g. as mentioned earlier in this chapter (p24-26) …
Referencing websites: Use brackets when referring to a specific website in a sentence,
e.g. for the latest news visit the NIHR website (www.nihr.ac.uk).
British English
Always use British English, rather than American English. Examples of this include:
‘centre’ not ‘center’, ‘colour’ not ‘color’ and ‘focusing’ not ‘focussing’.
Spell words such as generalise, emphasise, organisation and visualisation with an ‘s’ and not a ‘z’.
Punctuation
Full stops
Use only one space after a full stop. This is the standard practice for both online and print publishing.
Commas
Always insert one space after a comma. Exception: when writing out numbers, e.g. 12,500.
Quotation marks
Only use double quotation marks when quoting speech and use single quotation marks for quotes
within speech. Do not use quotation marks for document titles; use italics instead.
Hyphens ( – )
Hyphens are used to link compound words, e.g. walk-in, build-up.
Use words rather than hyphens to describe ranges, e.g. between 10 and 20 percent, not 10 – 20
percent. Hyphens can be used when writing a short date range, e.g. 24-26 August.
Brackets
Use brackets for acronyms or abbreviations after they have been mentioned for the first time,
e.g. Clinical Research Network (CRN). Do not use brackets as an aside to explain something further.
If something needs to be in the text it should be a full part of the text.
Obliques ( / )
Avoid using obliques within text, e.g. ‘from/to’ should be written ‘from and to’.
Ampersands ( & )
Avoid using ‘&’ except in universally recognised abbreviations, such as A&E or R&D.
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
Ellipses ( …)
Avoid using ellipses except in a very conversational style, e.g. ‘The study provided support to parents and
families … We achieved a high rate of retention, which was down to the strength of these relationships.’
Formatting text
Font
Arial 12 point is the NIHR’s standard font and size.
Bold: print
Bold can be used for headlines and subheadings. Do not use bold in paragraphs or sentences.
Rewrite a paragraph or sentence to emphasise a point.
Bold: online
Avoid bold text because it can be interpreted as a link. It also creates visual clutter and lessens the impact
of other information.
Underlining: print
Underlining can be used for titles and subheadings.
Underlining: online
Do not underline any online content as it makes text look like a link. Rewrite a paragraph or sentence
to emphasise a point.
Italics: print
Do not use italics to emphasise a point. Italics should only be used when referring to publication titles.
Italics: online
Never use italics, except for publication titles. They are hard to read on screen, especially for those with
visual impairments.
Using figures
Numbers
Numbers from one to nine should be written in full. Numbers from 10 upwards should be written in
numerals.
Exception: when using a mixture of numbers lower and higher than 10, each number should be written
as a figure, e.g. between 8 and 11 people were involved in the incident.
Any number at the beginning of a sentence should be written in full, e.g. Two thousand were recruited
into the study.
Millions and billions above 10 should be presented as follows: 14 million, 10 billion.
Millions and billions below 10 should be written as follows: three million, six billion.
Millions and billions should not be presented as figures, e.g. 1,000,000.
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Millions and billions should never be abbreviated to ‘m’ and ‘bn’.
Commas should be inserted into figures over 999, e.g. 1,500.
Fractions and decimals
Decimals should be used instead of fractions, except when the fraction is spelt out, e.g. ‘three-quarters’,
‘one half’. Decimals and written fractions should not be mixed together.
Money
Always use figures when writing about currency, e.g. ‘£5’, not ‘five pounds’.
Money less than £1 should be written in pence, e.g. ‘50 pence’, not ‘50p’.
Always use a figure without a space after the pound (£) sign, e.g. £14,000.
Percent
Use ‘percent’ rather than ‘per cent’ or the ‘%’ symbol.
The % symbol can be used in tables or graphs.
Specific online terms and procedures
Website and email links
All links on NIHR websites must be active.
Links should always be directly below the relevant content and always have descriptive text,
e.g. NIHR Clinical Research Network rather than the full web address, http://www.crncc.nihr.ac.uk/.
The phrase ‘Click here’ should never be used. Disability software for screen readers will read every
‘click here’ without telling the user what it links to.
Be selective about links to other NIHR web pages and to external websites. Creating unnecessary
links will confuse and irritate users.
Attachments
Publish documents only as PDFs, except for application forms. Word or Excel documents can be altered
once downloaded, which could lead to the NIHR being misrepresented.
Alternative image text (Alt tags)
Written explanations should accompany all web images. These appear when the cursor hovers over an
image, and are included for the benefit of visually impaired users. The explanations should be clear and
direct, e.g. nurse examining a child’s ear.
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
Tables and boxes
For accessibility reasons, tables and boxes should contain only numerical data and statistical or specific
information. They should not be used to:
●●
demonstrate flow charts
●●
list the names of committee individuals, or teams
●●
highlight key sections of text.
Files
Megabytes should be abbreviated to Mb not MB, e.g. 2,000 Mb
Gigabytes should be abbreviated to Gb not GB, e.g. 200 Gb.
Portable document format should be abbreviated to PDF not Pdf.
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5
Communication protocol
Contacting Department of Health officials and
Government ministers
Researchers, infrastructure and/or initiatives should direct any approaches to Department of Health
officials and government ministers, including the Prime Minister, through the relevant coordinating
centre. The co‑ordinating centre can validate your request and work with the Department of Health to
consider and fast track it, as appropriate. Whilst Department of Health Ministers and policy officials are
keen to engage with NIHR researchers, it is important to adopt a ‘no surprises’ and consistent approach.
This applies to all invitations, including those for:
●●
quotes
●●
speaking engagements
●●
visits
●●
opening new facilities
●●
videos
●●
web chats
●●
twitter debates
●●
podcasts.
Each request will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis and any necessary changes and/or suggested
amendments from the Department of Health will be mediated via the relevant coordinating centre.
See the Contacts section (p77).
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
Social media and digital engagement
The NIHR has a Digital Engagement (DE) Framework incorporating advice on setting up and using social
media channels and the benefits and risks to be considered. The NIHR has a range of corporate channels,
including:
●●
an external website (www.nihr.ac.uk) – plus a range of other work-stream-specific NIHR sites
●●
a YouTube channel for video content (www.youtube.com/NIHRtv)
●●
a Twitter account (http://twitter.com/OfficialNIHR).
The DE Framework should be referred to whenever social media are being considered as part of the
communications planning. Information and content published on social media channels is subject to the
same restrictions and legal requirements as information published in any other online media. Data
protection, freedom of information, copyright, intellectual property and privacy requirements all apply.
Coordinating centres, initiatives and individuals working under the NIHR umbrella should remember that
use of social media results in comments being permanently available and open to being republished in
other media. Information about the NIHR, or commitments to engage in activities on behalf of the NIHR,
must not be made unless you are authorised to do so. This authority may already be delegated. If not,
authority should be sought.
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Libel, defamation, copyright and
data protection
NIHR-funded individuals have a duty to ensure that what they publish does not cause embarrassment or
damage the good scientific reputation of the NIHR/Department of Health, or the standing of participants
in the research. It is in researchers’ interests to present their work in an objective and appropriate way.
Recipients of NIHR funding including Faculty members, and people who work for the NIHR, in any
capacity, must not include any defamatory content or statements whatsoever relating to an individual,
organisation, corporation, company or any other public or private body. The NIHR will not tolerate
abusive, offensive, threatening or unlawful content of any kind in publications arising from research
where the NIHR has provided whole or part funding.
Published material must not include information that could be used to specifically identify an individual
or an organisation of any kind who has participated, or is participating in the research, unless their
consent has been obtained and recorded. In addition to data protection issues, such disclosure may
cause that individual or organisation harm, loss or embarrassment. The Department of Health reserves
the right to remove any such identifying information.
Published material should not include any classified information, or advertise products, services or events
that are not NIHR-related, and which have not received appropriate Director‑level approval prior to
publication.
Individuals must always remain within the legal framework and be aware that libel, defamation,
copyright and data protection laws apply.
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6
Additional information
for researchers
Acknowledging NIHR funding
Principal investigators/lead researchers must acknowledge awards made by the NIHR. This applies to
project and programme grants as well as training and fellowship awards and use of research facilities.
In any written material such as a project website, pages on a host organisation’s website, patient
recruitment leaflets, posters and presentations, papers and reports, and media releases, the author must
acknowledge the support of the NIHR, providing specific details of the research programme funding,
training award/fellowship or support provided by a research facility.
Using the NIHR logotype
Research reports
The NIHR logotype must never be used on research reports. The independent nature of the research and
its intellectual property provenance should be emphasised by using the NIHR disclaimer (p42).
Promotional materials
The NIHR logotype can be used when possible on promotional materials, but never positioned in the top
right-hand corner, which implies ownership or endorsement by the NIHR.
Ideally, the NIHR logotype should be placed bottom right or in another appropriate position, ensuring
that it complies with the conditions of use, including size and keeping the ‘exclusion zone’ clear,
together with an appropriate funding statement.
Example:
The [name] project is funded by the Research for
Patient Benefit Programme.
Please note that NHS branding policy does not allow for two NHS national lozenges to be used on the
same page. Therefore, if you are using a NHS organisation logo, you should not use the NIHR logotype,
but just use a funding statement on its own.
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Patient materials
Patient materials about NIHR-funded research, including patient information sheets, and recruitment
leaflets and posters, should include the NIHR logotype whenever possible, accompanied by a funding
statement.
●●
For patient information sheets and leaflets about NIHR-funded research projects, the NIHR logotype
may be positioned bottom right on the front cover, on the inside cover or on the back page,
accompanied by a funding statement such as:
The [name of project] is funded by the National Institute for Health Research’s [name of
research programme] Programme.
If an NHS Trust logo is used, the NIHR logotype must not be included on the same page.
●●
For posters, the NIHR logotype should be positioned bottom right or in another suitable position
depending on the design, accompanied by a funding statement.
If another NHS organisation logo is used, then just use a funding statement to acknowledge the NIHR
Research Programme.
See also the Publications section (p34) and Using relationship and funding statements as accurate
descriptors (p24).
Research posters
Research posters are an effective and important way to show research findings at workshops and
conferences. Research posters can include the NIHR logotype, but not in the top right-hand corner,
and must include a funding acknowledgement and disclaimer statement (p42).
The NIHR logotype can be positioned bottom right or in another suitable position depending on the
design, together with a funding and disclaimer statement. If another NHS organisation logo is used,
only the funding and disclaimer statement should be used.
See the Posters section (p54).
Presentations
Researchers can include the NIHR logotype on presentations about NIHR-funded research projects
or awards, but not in the top right-hand corner. The NIHR logotype can be positioned bottom right,
accompanied by a funding acknowledgement.
If another NHS organisation logo is used, there are two options:
1. Use the NIHR logotype positioned bottom right on the opening slide, with a relationship statement
giving details of the NIHR funding or award, and use the NHS organisation logo on all the other
slides.
2. Use the NHS organisation logo on all the slides, but add a funding statement giving details of the
NIHR funding or award on the opening slide.
See the Presentations section (p55).
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
Websites
All references to NIHR-funded research placed on websites and intranet sites must acknowledge that it is
NIHR funded and, where practical, should include a link to the NIHR website (www.nihr.ac.uk).
Project logos
Funded research projects can develop a study name and create a logo, if it is agreed to be of benefit to
promoting and recruiting patients into the research study. Logos must be approved by the relevant
coordinating centre, see Contacts (p77).
Stationery
Funded projects should use their organisation stationery and should not create their own stationery.
However, a statement acknowledging that the research study is funded by the NIHR should be included
when writing letters about projects, especially to patients.
Publication and publicity
Principal investigators/lead researchers should refer to their funding contract to ensure that they comply
with the terms and conditions of their research contract. NIHR-funded research findings should be
published in an appropriate form, usually as a paper in a refereed journal. Reports of research findings,
interim or final, must never use the NIHR logotype but must use the NIHR disclaimer (p42).
The relevant NIHR coordinating centre must be informed of the intention to submit a paper or article for
publication. If you are part of an NIHR research facility, such as a centre or unit, you should inform your
centre manager, who will liaise with the relevant co‑ordinating centre. This will enable the NIHR and the
Department of Health to prepare for any media interest, and will also help to publicise your research.
Please ensure that you follow the advice provided in the Publishing research findings (p41), Press releases
(p43) and Communication protocol (p70) sections.
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7
Resources
NIHR logotype files and images
The NIHR logotype files, filmstrips and presentation templates are available on the NIHR identity
pages on the NIHR Portal (https://portal.nihr.ac.uk/welcome/Identity/Pages/IdentityHome.aspx).
Information on how to gain access to the NIHR Portal is available on the NIHR Website
(http://www.nihr.ac.uk/Pages/SupportRequest.aspx).
The NHS brand guidelines
The NHS brand guidelines are available at www.nhsidentity.nhs.uk/coreidentity/index.htm.
NHS photo library
The NHS photo library is available at www.photolibrary.nhs.uk.
Access to the library and use of the images is restricted to authorised users only. Non-Department of
Health or NHS employees will need to be sponsored to gain access to the library. You should ask a
Department of Health or NHS employee to be your sponsor and register with the NHS Photo Library,
providing your sponsor’s name.
For advice on any aspect of the NIHR resources, please contact the relevant coordinating centre
communication team.
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
8
Contacts
The NIHR communication teams can provide advice and ideas to help
you produce branded content
National Institute for Health Research
Email. enquiries@nihr.ac.uk
www.nihr.ac.uk
For queries regarding these guidelines
contact:
Sally Beck
R&D Information and Engagement Manager
Department of Health
Tel. 020 7210 5730
Email. sally.beck@dh.gsi.gov.uk
Leoni Yahyaoui
R&D Information and Engagement Officer
Department of Health
Tel. 020 7210 4923
Email. leonilde.yahyaoui@dh.gsi.gov.uk
For queries regarding IT and website
domain registration:
Justin Riordan-Jones
R&D Information Manager
Department of Health
Tel. 020 7210 5786
Email. justin.riordan-jones@dh.gsi.gov.uk
NIHR Identity Guidelines
Coordinating Centres
For queries on how to apply the NIHR identity
guidelines, contact the relevant coordinating
centre:
NIHR Central Commissioning Facility
Grange House
15 Church Street
Twickenham
Middlesex TW1 3NL
Tel. 020 8843 8058
Email. info@nihr-ccf.org.uk
www.nihr-ccf.org.uk
NIHR Evaluation, Trials and Studies
Coordinating Centre
Alpha House
Enterprise Road
University of Southampton Science Park
Chilworth
Southampton SO16 7NS
Tel. 023 8059 5586
Email. info@netscc.ac.uk
www.netscc.ac.uk
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NIHR Trainees Coordinating Centre
Leeds Innovation Centre
103 Clarendon Road
Leeds LS2 9DF
Tel. 0113 346 6260
Email. comms@nihrtcc.org.uk
www.nihrtcc.nhs.uk
NIHR Clinical Research Network
Coordinating Centre
71–75 Clarendon Road
Leeds LS2 9LT
Tel. 0113 343 2314
Email. crncc.comms@nihr.ac.uk
www.crncc.nihr.ac.uk/
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NIHR Identity Guidelines
© Crown copyright 2012
2900141 May 2012
Produced by Williams Lea for the Department of Health