Trials Sites and Network

Strengthen collaboration and communication across UK and international research networks to streamline trial delivery, foster shared learning, and build a connected UK-wide dementia research community.

Building a Strong Foundation for Dementia Trials

The UK Dementia Trials Network (UKDTN) was created to accelerate the delivery of innovative clinical trials across the UK. From the outset, interest has been overwhelming, with more than 30 sites expressing their commitment to join. To ensure quality and efficiency, we adopted a phased approach: expert sites onboarded first to optimize processes (Wave 1), followed by rolling inclusion of additional sites based on activity and readiness (Wave 2). This structured expansion ensures that every participating site receives the training and resources needed to deliver world-class research.

UKDTN operates on a tiered model:

Affiliate Sites – All UK trial-ready sites that share our mission and values.
Training Sites – Dedicated hubs for developing expertise and fostering best practices.
Member Sites – Fully onboarded sites with core funding and dedicated trial staff.

This structure promotes regional collaboration, resource sharing, and mentorship, ensuring that capacity building benefits the entire network.

Streamlined Processes for Faster Start-Up

One of UKDTN’s core achievements has been the implementation of harmonized and centralized processes. These include:

Overarching Confidentiality Agreements
Real-time site capability dashboards
Centralized ethics and governance approvals
Standardized contracting and costings

These measures have significantly reduced administrative burden and improved timelines for trial activation. Lessons learned from early-phase pilots are already being applied to later-phase studies, creating a ripple effect of efficiency across the network.

Collaborative Onboarding and Capacity Building

Onboarding a site is an iterative process that goes beyond paperwork. We work closely with each site to understand its structure, governance, and operational needs. Through site visits, due diligence, and collaborative planning, we identify areas for sustainable investment and help overcome local challenges. This approach ensures that every member site is equipped to deliver trials effectively and in alignment with UKDTN’s vision.

Driving Impact Together

Our guiding principle is simple: “Right trial, right site, right patient, right time”. By working collaboratively with sponsors, CROs, and research sites, UKDTN is transforming the clinical trial landscape for dementia. With streamlined processes, strong partnerships, and a commitment to excellence, we are delivering real results for patients and paving the way for future breakthroughs.

UKDTN Sites’ expectations

UKDTN member sites play a critical role in ensuring the success of clinical trials. To maintain high standards and deliver results efficiently, each site commits to the following responsibilities:

Trial Capacity

Provide monthly data on capacity and capability
Develop a case for site-specific capacity building
Deliver responsive reporting on milestones and deliverables
Participate in annual performance reviews

Collaborative Working and Data Sharing

Share learning and best practices across the network
Engage in mentorship at both individual and site level
Work regionally to maximize resources and impact
Uphold UKDTN’s vision and values in all activities