Recently, members of the NIHR Mental Health Translational Research Collaboration (MH-TRC) Mission Mood Disorder Network came together in London for an away day focused on sharing learning, celebrating progress, and shaping future priorities.
The event brought together clinical and academic leads, research delivery teams, and Experts by Experience from the Mood Disorder Network clinics across the UK.
Morning sessions highlighted progress across the Mood Disorder Network sites and the continued growth of research activity and clinical delivery.
Presentations from Newcastle CaPE Clinic and and Sheffield Seven Hills Research Clinic shared practical insights into delivering research in real-world settings, emphasising the importance of strong partnerships, effective coordination, and adapting to local challenges.
A session led by the Nottingham research clinic focused on widening access to research, including reaching underserved communities and strengthening engagement with local services.
Table discussions enabled sites to share local priorities and challenges, helping to inform a coordinated, network-wide approach.
Experts by Experience were central to the day, highlighting the importance of co-design and ensuring research is accessible, relevant, and patient-centred. They also shared reflections on the positive impact of the research clinics on patient experience and care.
Afternoon discussions focused on shaping the future of the Mood Disorder Network, including sustainability, impact, and growth. Priorities included strengthening research delivery and demonstrating the impact of the research clinic model at both local and national levels.
International perspectives from the National Network of Depression Centers, based in the US, and the MAGNET Clinical Trials Network, in Australia, provided additional insight into how established mental health research networks are evolving and sustaining impact in other countries.
The day concluded with a shared commitment to build on the Mood Disorder Network’s momentum and continue working collaboratively to improve care and research for people with mood disorders.
Mary Wilson, Mood Disorder Network Project Manager said: “The away day was a great opportunity to bring colleagues together from across the UK to reflect on progress and share learning across research clinics.
“It was especially valuable to meet Experts by Experience involved in shaping local services and hear directly about the impact of this work, while also taking time to focus on our shared priorities for the future.”
Visit the MH-TRC Mission Mood Disorder Network webpage for more information on their work.
For enquiries relating to the Mood Disorder Network email: mary.wilson@psych.ox.ac.uk
