You’re a partner in discovery
At OPEN-ARMS, research and care go hand-in-hand. Our service was built on evidence showing that offering early help for distressing or unusual experiences can improve quality of life over time. As a University-affiliated clinical centre, part of our mission is to generate the evidence that helps people in the best possible way—and we can only do that with you.
Your choice, your pace
- Taking part in research is completely optional.
- Your care will be the same whether you take part or not.
- We will always give you clear information and time to decide.
- You can say no or change your mind at any time.
Why consider taking part?
- Make a difference: Contribute to worldwide efforts to better understand and improve help for unusual experiences and psychosis.
- Access to innovation: Some new treatments and approaches are only available within research studies. Taking part may offer access to novel interventions, enhanced monitoring, or additional support alongside standard care.
- A meaningful experience: Many people find research interesting and rewarding. Most studies reimburse you for your time and travel.
- Shape what we do: Your feedback helps us improve how we deliver care now and in the future.
We put young people and families at the centre of everything we do—including how we design studies and how we run our service—so that research stays useful, acceptable, and engaging.
What will it involve?
Research opportunities vary. Depending on the study, you might be invited to:
- complete questionnaires or interviews
- try a new therapy or digital tool
- provide simple health measures (e.g., sleep or activity monitoring)
- attend extra check-ins so we can understand what’s helping
If a study is relevant for you, we’ll discuss it during your initial appointment or a later visit. You’ll receive a Participant Information Sheet that explains what’s involved, potential benefits and risks, and who to contact with questions.
Your rights and your data
- All studies are reviewed by an independent Research Ethics Committee.
- Your information is handled under NHS and UK data protection standards.
- Saying no will not affect your care.
- You can withdraw at any time without giving a reason.
How we work with patients, families, and young people
We co-design parts of our research with people who have lived experience and with families, so that studies answer the questions that matter and are run in ways people find respectful and practical. If you’re interested in this kind of involvement, let us know.
Interested?
If you’d like to hear about current opportunities—or you have questions—please contact us:
open.arms.service@oxfordhealth.nhs.uk
We’re happy to talk through what’s available and what might suit you. Your voice matters, and your participation—whether in care, in research, or both—helps us improve support for you and for many others.