Consumer Bursary Information
Consumer Bursaries are available to patients, carers and others affected by a cancer diagnosis in the UK.
Consumers are involved at every level in the work of the NCRI and its associated Networks. Consumers (patients, carers and others affected by cancer) sit on the Board and other strategic groups run by NCRI, as well as participating in the peer review of proposed clinical research being developed nationally and in local networks.
The NCRI Consumer Liaison Group (CLG) has over 60 members, many of whom are cancer patients, survivors, as well as carers. Some members also have experience of taking part in clinical trials themselves. The CLG provides support to its members through ongoing training and mentorship, in their work with NCRI, the National Cancer Research Network (NCRN) and Experimental Cancer Medicine Centres (ECMCs). The CLG also helps to support the development of Consumer Research Panels in local Cancer Networks, working with Clinical Trials Units to deepen consumer involvement in the research process, and working to raise public awareness of the importance of clinical research.
Consumers can gain a lot from attending the NCRI Cancer Conference. For example, the scientific programme includes papers which will be of personal interest to individuals because of their own circumstances, as well as offering deeper insight into areas of clinical research relevant to each consumer’s own activities. In addition to opportunities for networking with researchers, clinicians and other consumers, there are also a range of consumer-led sessions within the conference programme which help to inform future priority setting for research, as well as offering the opportunity to review and discuss activities that are already underway.
The NCRI Cancer Conference Consumer Bursary Award is intended to support consumers who are committed to involvement in cancer research and who wish to contribute to the Conference, regardless of whether they are members of one of the CLG’s initiatives. However, there is a limit for the Consumer Bursary budget and applicants are asked to first explore other avenues for support before applying. Should the Bursary Scheme be over-subscribed, it may be necessary to offer bursaries that fall short of the full costs of attending. Full bursaries cover the conference registration fee, accommodation, travel and subsistence. Applicants are encouraged to look at the Conference Programme to decide which days are most relevant to their own needs and interests.
If you have any questions, please contact Agneta Hedvall in the NCRI Secretariat. Tel: +44 (0)20 7061 8460 or
