The CGD Research is delighted to be named a winner at the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC) Awards 2009, which celebrates the best and most innovative examples of science communication among its member charities. Sponsors included the Academy of Medical Sciences, the Bio Industry Association, the Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, the Department of Health, the Medical Research Council, the Wales Office of Research, Development for Health and Social Care and the UK Clinical Research Collaboration and the AMRC itself.
The CGD Research Trust was shortlisted in two of the eight competition categories at a time when it is increasingly important for charities to be open and transparent about the research that they fund, to increase understanding about research and to explain the rationale behind choosing particular avenues of research. Simon Denegri, CEO, AMRC, said: 'Medical research charities are now at the forefront of efforts to improve public understanding of science in the UK'.
In illustrious company at a reception at the Royal Society, Dr Susan Walsh, CGD RT's Medical Research Officer, and Rosemarie Rymer, General Manager, waited for the judges' decisions on the two categories in which we were shortlisted.
The panel of nine judges included Simon Moore, Sir Iain Chalmers, Professor Clive Page, Caroline Ellis, Laura Gilbert, Dr Ann McPherson, Rebecca Morell, Professor Raymond Tallis and Simon Wilde.
We were thrilled to be announced the winner in 'Innovative Communication by Small Charities', in which we were shortlisted with the British Liver Trust and Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths. Baroness Cumberlege, pictured left, presented the prize of £300. Dr Walsh's 'News on the Research Front', a regular section in CGD RT newsletters, was highly praised for its collection of research stories. 'These excellent newsletters were singled out for their good science content and strong community feel. Several judges commented that if they were supporters they could imagine looking forward to receiving the newsletters.'
'I like these magazines - they are clear, approachable and easy to read. The science comes across clearly', said one judge. 'You get a sense of care for patients, of hope for sufferers and their carers, and of the strength of the community,' said another.
In the 'Online Research Communication' category, the CGD RT was shortlisted with Cancer Research Trust and Breaktrhough Breastcancer. The staff and trustees felt a deep sense of achievement at being shortlisted with such excellent charities that have considerable resources and budget at their disposal. Our own website was deemed 'A good job with a small budget.'
'The site looks great and is very easy to navigate - all of the information you want is a click away. I also liked that the site had different areas for different users; which were all well written and clear.'
Susan Walsh is a passionate believer in 'making science real' to non-scientists. 'It is so important that people affected by CGD really understand what progress is being made on their behalf. It gives hope, encouragement and allows them to engage with the work of researchers', she said. 'Scientists and clinicians should be able to clearly communicate their work. It is only by breaking down barriers and demsytifying science that the public will fully understand how important research is to all of us and the health of future generations.'
'Recognition means so much - it validates our work and is a real spur to do more,' said Rosemarie Rymer. 'The judges provided us with feedback on each of the five categories we entered. Their praise and constructive comments are all very helpful. The AMRC event is an opportunity for small charites as well as large and I'd like to thank the AMRC for organising a really great event.'
See more at: www.amrc.org.uk Charities lead by example on public understanding
IMPORTANT NOTE :
The information contained on this website is intended only as a guideline, not as a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your doctor if you or your child has any CGD symptoms or concerns.
© 2001-2007 The Chronic Granulomatous Disorder (CGD) Research Trust
Registered Charity No. 1003425 email:cgd@cgdrt.co.uk
The CGD Research Trust is a member of the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC), the Genetic Interest Group (GiG) and an associate member of the International Patient Organisation of Primary Immunodeficiencies (IPOPI)
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