This document is intended as an aide-memoire for RRDN Specialty and Setting Research Leads (RSSLs) and Health and Care Directors to support the induction process for RSSLs. It is suggested that the content of the document is created and could be used as a check list. The list is not exhaustive, but intended to guide some key activities for the induction process.
Introduction with RRDN Network Director. This may be in person and/or introductory video call
Set up a NIHR account if not already registered
Handover meeting to be arranged with outgoing RSSL (where possible/appropriate)
RRDN to inform the Research Delivery Network (RDN) Coordinating Centre (CC ) of new appointment by completing the NIHR RDN Contacts: [XXXX RRDN] Google sheet, previously shared by the RDNCC Performance and Impact team (in case of queries, please contact rdncc.performance.impact@nihr.ac.uk). The RDNCC Performance and Impact team will be automatically notified and will inform all relevant RDNCC functions and update the RDN Contacts sheet.
RSSL and RRDN Health and Care Director arrange to meet
Items to be covered in meeting between RSSL and key contact for support at RRDN:
Discussion around roles and how they interact, link and support one another
Discussion around key objectives and goals for the RRDN annual planning
Brief introduction to national stakeholders (National Setting and Specialty Leads (NSSLs) and national team)
Brief introduction to regional stakeholders (local Chief Investigators (CIs), Principal Investigators (PIs) and other key contacts
Has the RSSL received/completed a Confidential Disclosure Agreement (CDA)?
What support is available to RSSLs within the RRDN core team
Overview of any national, regional or specialty specific work programmes in place with RSSL, will feed into and support/advise on
National and regional meetings; frequency, attendance, use of deputies etc
National Specialty meetings
Local Specialty Group (SG) meetings
Specialty Development Group (SDG) meetings
RRSL meetings with the RRDN
Others
Discussion around mentoring support - what is needed and how can it be provided
RSSL to view the National Specialties and Settings Leads Induction Resources for modular training in NIHR RDN-related activities. Month one and ongoing activity; RRDN team may share the above link with their newly appointed RSSLs
Discuss Specialty key aims and objectives and key learning and development needs with Health and Care Director, prior to meeting with RRDN Network Director
RSSL to arrange mentoring discussion with mentor to agree areas for support
Meet with RRDN Health and Care Director to discuss aims and objectives, and any identified needs
Meet with RRDN Senior Management/Leadership team
Prepare for annual review. This may include:
Key achievements over the last year
Strengths of the specialty group
Factors limiting specialty performance
What resources/training would be helpful
Priority activities for the forthcoming year
CDA: Confidential Disclosure Agreement
CI: Chief Investigator
D&A: Data and Analytics
PI: Principal Investigator
NSSL: National Setting and Specialty Lead
RDN: Research Delivery Network
RRDN: Regional Research Delivery Manager
RRDN: Regional Research Delivery Network
RSSL: Regional Setting and Specialty Lead
SDG: Specialty Development Group
SG: Specialty Group
Version: 2.3
Effective from: January 2025