Sunderland has rapidly transformed its Primary Care research landscape, thanks to the dedicated work of the SGPA Research Team.

Previously, NIHR reported minimal research activity in the area, with practices citing barriers such as time, confidence, and funding.

Since December 2023, when all six PCNs invested in the SGPA Research Team, Sunderland has seen a dramatic increase in primary care engagement in research. By 2024, the city was recognised as having the most research-active practices in the region an achievement directly supported by the team’s hands-on guidance and integration into PCN multi-disciplinary teams.

The SGPA Research Team works to embed studies into routine practice, minimising extra workload, boosting research participation, and strengthening community and personal resilience all while helping reduce health and wellbeing inequalities across Sunderland.