Research needs to be designed so that it is truly inclusive, to ensure the outcomes benefit everyone. We are committed to embedding Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) across our research. In collaboration with the wider Centre for Cancer Screening, Prevention and Early Diagnosis in the Wolfson Institute the Cancer Prevention Trials Unit has developed an EDI strategy to meet the following aims:
We have developed a strategy to ensure we deliver on our commitment to EDI, while undertaking our research in advancing earlier diagnosis and prevention of cancer.
OUR WORK
In all our trials, we strive to be as inclusive as possible to avoid worsening existing health inequalities. Below we share a few case studies of strategies implemented in our work:
NHS-Galleri Trial Sampling Strategy Evaluation
DISTINCT: exploring public views on collecting data to monitor inclusivity of cancer clinical trials
ASSESS
We reviewed EDI practices in each of our projects and have standardised the way we collect demographic data to facilitate accurate reporting and improve inclusive recruitment.
PLAN
We have implemented an EDI and PPI assessment for all future projects, to ensure we cost for and implement inclusive strategies from the outset.
COMMIT
Our EDI team meets regularly and feeds into CPTU team leads and the wider Centre for Cancer Screening, Prevention and Early Diagnosis leadership to ensure accountability in improving inclusivity.
OUR TEAM
Our EDI journey began with better understanding our team. We have formed an EDI Group where the voices of colleagues, particularly those in minority groups, are platformed. The EDI Group has developed these key strategies for our team:
COLLABORATE
The EDI principles embedded in our policies reflect a collaborative approach, where diverse PPI perspectives shape the strategy of our group.
EDUCATE
We have a growing internal library of resources for use by all colleagues
and host EDI talks and seminars during regular Centre meetings.
CELEBRATE
We are developing case studies on our best-practice wins, with a view to providing examples of how inclusivity can look in practice, and to generate discussion of what more can be done going forward.
We are highlighting the voices of our staff members from diverse backgrounds in our blog.
OUR EDI BLOGS
Can prediction models reduce racial/ethnic disparities in lung screening eligibility criteria?
How do we transform cervical cancer screening for the transgender population?
Pride in Research: The legacy of erasure and the future of LGBT+ inclusive trials
EDI Series | Part 1: 5 minutes with..
Sisters are doin’ it for themselves
The colours of a clinical trial – Cancer Prevention and Screening Blog (qmul.ac.uk)
The Legacy of Henrietta Lacks – Cancer Prevention and Screening Blog (qmul.ac.uk)
Resources:
OUTpatients - LGBTIQ+ Cancer Charity