For Sarah Norris, an advanced occupational therapist currently specialising in amputee rehabilitation at Newcastle Hospitals, research was always an aspiration – but the path forward felt unclear.
That changed when she joined the 4Ps Researcher Development Programme, which she describes as “the starting block” for her research career.
“I’ve always wanted to do my own research, but I didn’t know how to go about it,” Sarah explains. “The 4Ps gave me an incredibly useful introduction to the world of research.”
The power of networking and connecting
The programme helped her think strategically – about building networks, developing confidence, and identifying research questions and funding opportunities while remaining clinically active.
Of the 4Ps modules: Place, Project, Person and Plan the module Person stood out to Sarah. “It highlighted the value of networking and connecting with experienced researchers who are willing to help.
“It made me realise that as a clinician aspiring to become a researcher, you’re not alone and are welcome to join a collaborative community of like-minded individuals.”
Armed with new skills and connections, Sarah presented posters showcasing her research findings and completed a research internship funded by the Newcastle Hospitals’ NMAHPs Research Development Institute, funded by Newcastle Hospitals Charity, which supported Sarah to be released from clinical practice for one day a week to conduct her research.
“The internship was a starting point for me to develop my networks and experience and gave me breathing space to ‘look up’ from clinical work. This, along with the 4Ps programme was very encouraging and helped me cultivate networks beyond my clinical area, as well as that ‘space’ to contemplate next steps.”
Improving patient care and experience
Sarah was ready to embark on her first project. “I have always been interested in using data to evidence our value and support decision making, as well as improving services through audit and evaluation.
“What became apparent to me was the lack of holistic measurement of the value of occupational therapy in the hospital process. This is because OTs are traditionally associated with discharge planning and providing equipment, yet my interactions with patients are much more complex than this”.
Sarah led a systematic review on patient perspectives of recovery after major musculoskeletal trauma. Her findings – published in Trauma in 2023 – revealed that recovery is a multidimensional process of “crafting a new normal.”
Sarah’s future looks bright
Sarah’s journey didn’t stop there. She joined the James Lind Alliance Major Trauma Research Priority Setting Partnership, contributing to participatory research published in the BMJ. Her work has since been cited multiple times, boosting confidence and credibility.
Most recently, she successfully secured funding for a PhD, a major achievement she’s incredibly proud of. “I don’t know if this would have happened without the gateway offered by the 4Ps into research,” she reflects.
“It really is an accessible, bite-sized introduction that can truly transform your research journey.”
Find out how the 4Ps Programme could help kickstart your research journey