We're proud to announce that we've been selected to receive the Clinical Research Network's Certificate of Achievement for Greater Manchester.

The Certificate of Achievement is a brand-new award, presented to individuals or teams who have made significant contributions to the National Institute for Health and Care Research's research in the region.

We've been awarded the certificate for our contributions to a recent clinical trial, and for leading the way as the most research-active hospice in our region.

Most notably, Bolton Hospice has played an important part in CHELsea II trial, which is assessing whether giving patients in the last days of life fluids via a drip, also known as ‘clinically-assisted hydration’, is effective at preventing distress such as confusion and restlessness.

So far, 15 patients at Bolton Hospice have agreed to be part of the trial. In doing so, they have contributed vital data to the UK-wide project, which is working with 80 sites across the country and is aiming to collect data from 1,600 participants.

Representatives from Greater Manchester's Clinical Research Network visited the hospice to present the award to Dr Ellie McCann, Consultant Physician and Medical Director, and her team.

Dr Ellie McCann said, "Bolton Hospice have been proud to be part of this trial looking at a topic which is common for patients in our care and around the world in palliative care. The patients and families we have approached have been very keen to play a part in this research and we are extremely grateful for their involvement. By consenting to take part, they are all leaving a wonderful legacy by helping to improve the comfort of future patients in end of life care.”

A huge well done to Dr Ellie McCann and her team!