NIHR Increases Payment Rates for Public Involvement in Research
The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) has announced a 10% increase in payment rates for public involvement in research, effective from 16 December 2025. The uplift represents a significant step in recognising the vital contribution made by patients, carers, and community members to health and social care research across the UK.
The payment increase forms part of the NIHR’s Strategic Commitments for Public Partnerships, which aims to strengthen collaboration between researchers and those with lived experience of health and social care services. Alongside the rate increase, the organisation is working to streamline payment processes to ensure public contributors receive their payments more promptly.
NIHR payment rates are structured according to the level and nature of involvement, ranging from activities such as reviewing funding applications to contributing to study design. Following the uplift, rates for public involvement now range from £13.80 to £495, depending on the specific role and time commitment required.
Professor Lucy Chappell, Chief Scientific Adviser to the Department of Health and Social Care and Chief Executive of the NIHR, emphasised the importance of public involvement in research. “Public involvement is an NIHR priority and improves the relevance and quality of our research,” she stated. “That is why it is so vital to recognise those who use their experiences to shape life-changing NIHR research.
This uplift is a signal to the system that the NIHR acknowledges the importance of those who shape research across the UK.”
NIHR-funded researchers are expected to implement the increased rate immediately. Those with questions about how the change may affect their projects have been advised to consult the NIHR’s payment guidance or contact their NIHR programme or infrastructure lead. The organisation anticipates that the budget impact for NIHR-funded projects will be limited.
The new rate was determined following consultation with public contributors, staff, funders, regulators, and government departments. The NIHR emphasises that the increase better reflects the value placed on public involvement in shaping research priorities and methodologies.
Public contributors should be aware that they remain responsible for their own tax and benefits reporting. The NIHR provides guidance and offers a free Benefits Advice Service via Citizens Advice, which can be accessed by contacting publicpartnerships@nihr.ac.uk.
The NIHR distinguishes public involvement from research participation. Public involvement refers to patients, carers, people who use social care services, and members of the public actively participating in research teams to help design and conduct studies.
These individuals often share their experiences of health and social care to inform research direction and implementation. This differs from being a research participant, where individuals take part in trials or studies to test new treatments or care options.
Payment rates will be reviewed every three years, with any changes normally taking effect in the following financial year. However, the NIHR notes that rate reviews do not guarantee future increases.
Further enquiries regarding the rate increase may be directed to publicpartnerships@nihr.ac.uk.
