The UK Government has committed to a national performance target for clinical research delivery that aims to shorten the time taken to set up interventional studies to 150 calendar days from initial regulatory application to first participant recruited, with a deadline of March 2026 for full implementation. This target is part of a broader drive to make the UK a more attractive and competitive environment for clinical research, reduce unnecessary bureaucracy, and accelerate patient access to innovative therapies. The metric is embedded within the UK Clinical Research Delivery (UKCRD) programme and monitored through monthly performance reporting.

Operationally, the 150-day target breaks down into three sequential phases: (1) up to 60 days for combined regulatory review and approval, (2) up to 60 days from approval to sites opening for recruitment, and (3) up to 30 days from site opening to first participant recruited. These stages reflect key performance indicators that NHS organisations and research sites are expected to meet or exceed. Efforts to achieve this include streamlined regulatory and governance processes, standardised national contracts to reduce protracted negotiations with multiple NHS entities, improved digital systems for submissions and approvals, and increased transparency of site performance.

For primary care professionals involved in research delivery, this target reinforces the importance of efficient recruitment practices and alignment with national performance standards. It also means that integrated care boards (ICBs) and participating practices will increasingly be required to monitor and optimise their set-up timelines, ensuring that delays in approvals, contracting, or initial recruitment are addressed proactively.