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Research Governance Framework


Ethical research in health and social care

The Research Governance Framework (RGF) for health and social care considers and approves research in the sector. It is a statutory duty for adults and children’s social work in our Adult Social Care and Together for Families directorates.

The Research Governance Framework Panel meets monthly to consider applications. The panel’s priority is to check that: 

  • the research is ethical
  • proposals have taken into consideration data protection
  • Proposals have a sound research methodology

The aim is to encourage compliance without discouraging research.

Making an application to the panel

To make an application to the panel, download our guidance documents and complete the application form:

Applications to be considered at panel must be emailed to:

Applications are required to be submitted two weeks before the panel date. An outcome / feedback will be forwarded within two weeks of panel.

Panel dates for 2026

Panel dates will be held on the following Fridays throughout 2026:

  • 16 January 2026
  • 13 February 2026
  • 13 March 2026
  • 10 April 2026
  • 8 May 2026
  • 12 June 2026
  • 10 July 2026
  • 14 August 2026
  • 11 September 2026
  • 9 October 2026
  • 13 November 2026
  • 11 December 2026

For more information about the process and applications contact the appropriate RGF team. Contact details can be found on this page.

Useful resources

You can find out more in:

Published Research

The following published research has been supported by the RGF Panel.

Data protection

For information and advice about data protection issues, please email our Information Governance Team:

Last Updated:

08/12/2025