Importance of research in practice

This chapter discusses the importance of research in health and social care practice, exploring the benefits, difficulties, and contentions. Themes explore how personal values impact research and an understanding of its essential role to informing health and social care policy which significantly shapes professional practice. The everyday nature of research is discussed drawing upon events such as the Covid-19 pandemic to understand the critical role that research played in guiding health and social care, as well as addressing the challenges of dealing with broader global health events. Evidence-based decision-making and approaches are at the centre of health and social care and understanding the significant role that research plays in guiding professional practice. This ensures that practitioners deliver services grounded in the best possible evidence, and that meet the diverse needs of people accessing these services.