Rachael Pick, North Yorkshire Council (NIHR Local Authority Short Placement for Research Collaboration awardee)
“When I began my LASPARC placement, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. I knew I wanted to understand research more clearly and to build confidence in how I might contribute as an Occupational Therapist. What I didn’t anticipate was just how transformative the experience would be — not just for my skills, but for my professional identity, my confidence, and the way I engage within my organisation.
One of the most powerful outcomes of the placement was learning to find my voice. As my understanding of research deepened, I found myself becoming more comfortable speaking up, sharing ideas, and contributing to discussions that shape practice.
Since completing the placement, I’ve noticed that colleagues increasingly recognise the value of my research engagement, and I’m seen as someone who brings a meaningful, evidence‑informed perspective to the team. That’s been incredibly encouraging.
Spending time with the University of York research team was eye‑opening. It gave me a much clearer picture of how social care research is shaped, designed, and delivered — and importantly, where practitioners fit into that process.
Attending events such as the SSCR Conference and NIHR Academy conference helped widen my understanding even further. Being in spaces where research, practice, and policy meet helped me imagine what a practitioner‑academic career might look like, and how my own journey could evolve.
One of the achievements I’m most proud of is establishing the first Occupational Therapy Journal Club within my service. What began as a small idea quickly became a meaningful space where colleagues can explore research together, ask questions, and grow in confidence. It’s already strengthened our culture of evidence‑informed practice — and it’s been a joy to see others getting excited about research too.
Research no longer feels distant or intimidating — it feels accessible, relevant, and deeply connected to the work I do with people every day.
Looking back, this placement has been more than a professional development opportunity — it has been a turning point. It has shaped my professional identity, strengthened my role within my team, and confirmed my ambition to continue along NIHR pathways.
Most of all, it has made me excited for what comes next.”
An LA SPARC award offers the opportunity for placements between the NIHR and Local Authority settings, in either direction, to build collaborations and bridge the gap between academia and practice. You can apply once a year in late September.
Visit the funding website to find out more.
