The programme is based at the University of St Andrews’ School of Medicine but includes various health care providers, third sector and scientific partners across Scotland and internationally. The project leverages the strengths of NHS Fife and Highland, which are the ideal test beds, with academic, clinical and managerial readiness for further innovation.
OUR PATIENT AND PUBLIC PARTNERS
NHS Collaboration
We put the patients and the public first! That is why we work with the Fife Community Advisory Council (FCAC). They serve as a vital “sounding board” made up of public volunteers alongside researchers from the University of St Andrews School of Medicine and NHS Fife. Their role is to inform and improve our research by advising on study topics, materials (like grant applications and participant sheets), and protocols, ensuring outcomes that are meaningful to patients and local communities .
Its members can opt in to as many projects as they wish, are respected as co-applicants on select studies, and are reimbursed for travel, fostering a diverse, inclusive partnership that seeks to elevate healthcare both regionally and nationally
We also work with the Fife Centre for Equalities (FCE) which is a local charity funded by Fife Council, with the charitable aim to raise awareness and understanding of equality and diversity across all communities and community groups in Fife. FCE provide us with access to appropriate information, assistance and training to communities and community groups in support of fair and inclusive community development.
GET INVOLVED
Help us realise our Vision
To continue our work to improve care in the last year of life for all people in Scotland we need funding partners and international expertise. You want to work or cooperate with us?
OUR NATIONAL PARTNERS
NHS Collaboration
We have an intensive collaboration with NHS Fife and NHS Highland’s services, brought together under the ‘Palliative Care Collaborative’ in Fife; and the End of Life Care Together Partnership in Highland.
OUR ACADEMIC PARTNERS
University of Edinburgh and Yale University
This initiative also profits from collaboration with academic leaders at University of Edinburgh and from Yale University, enhancing the global perspective and approach towards the implementation of data science in healthcare.
We will also work with the University of St Andrews Research & Innovation Services and NHS Fife & Highland Research Innovation and Knowledge teams to explore commercial exploitation of this work.
OUR THIRD SECTOR PARTNERS
Highland Hospice and PATCH
Highland Hospice provides compassionate, individual-focused support for people facing life-shortening illnesses, ensuring that both patients and their families receive comprehensive care during challenging times. This is called palliative care. Their services prioritize pain management and address emotional, social, and spiritual needs, helping individuals find calm and meaning as they navigate transitions. As an independent local charity, they help us to enhance support and training, offering all services free of charge to those in the Highlands.
Palliation and the caring hospital or PATCH is the first charity in Scotland focused on funding 24/7 specialist palliative care in hospitals. Most hospitals currently offer such care only during weekday working hours. PATCH supports improved patient care by funding resources like dedicated beds, staff, advisory services, and research, aiming to make round-the-clock palliative care the norm.
OUR FUNDERS
Grant by the Chief Scientist Office
We have been awarded a 5-year programme grant through the Chief Scientist Office of the Scottish Government (Grant Reference AHRP/23/40).