The Clinical Research Unit was set up in 1995 due to an increasing number of phase I and II trials being undertaken in the WoSBCC. By centralising the care of patients in early anti-cancer trials, the intensive demands of these trials are efficiently met both from a patient care perspective and also with regard to trial organisation and data collection.

The CRU functions as a day patient and out patient unit, liasing with the WoSBCC wards for in-patient beds when required.

All phase I, most phase II and selected phase III trials at the WoSBCC(depending on intensity) are run through the CRU. Designated palliative care studies are also run through the unit. Each trial has a designated SpR, Research Nurse and Data Manager.

There are eight research nurses based in the CRU, who are all experienced oncology nurses with a sound educational background and high level of clinical expertise. The Clinical Nurse Specialist is responsible for the direction and support of the research nurses and also has a clinical and teaching role.

This is a full time clerical and secretarial position based in the CRU to ensure efficient collection and maintenance of patient case notes and a quick turn around for letters to GPs, referring clinicians etc after each episode of patient care.

There are various consultant medical staff involved with the CRU, mainly from Medical Oncology but also from Clinical Oncology and palliative care. Most of the clinical trials are run predominantly by a specif SpR with the consultant in a supportive role for advice and consultation when required.