Bradford health researchers are looking for the public to help them with the UK’s biggest study into patient safety.

The pioneering research will see patients give direct feedback to health professionals to improve safety, with the experiences of those who have suffered clinical errors being used to train junior doctors across the country.

The project is being led by Professor John Wright, of Bradford Institute of Health Research, the expert-research arm of Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Prof Wright said: “While staff in the NHS work hard to provide the safest possible care, mistakes still happen which can result in harm to patients. Initiatives to improve patient safety have so far focused on ways in which healthcare is organised and delivered, and getting doctors and nurses to adopt safer working practices.

“There has been little involvement of patients in shaping safety improvement measures. Our study will explore how best to achieve patient involvement and make the best use of the patient experience to improve safety.”

Now, one year into the five-year study, the Bradford research team needs six panel members to help with the £2 million study.

Senior research fellow and patient safety programme co-ordinator, Rosie McEachan, said: “We’re looking for confident, motivated individuals who have experience of NHS hospitals either as a patient, a relative or a carer.

“Participants need to attend seven meetings a year and there is a small fee and expenses available to those who are successful.”

Each year incidents causing harm to patients are estimated to occur in ten per cent of all NHS hospital admissions. The study, made possible by a grant awarded by the National Institute for Health research, will enable health chiefs to develop ways to encourage patients to report mistakes or practises they believe could cause harm.

Anyone who wants to take part should contact Carolyn Clover, programme administrator, on (01274) 383430 or e-mail: Carolyn.clover@ bradfordhospitals.nhs.uk. The closing date for returned applications is Thursday, April 1.