Research at Rainbows
Research helps us understand more about the needs and experiences of babies, children and young people with life-shortening and life-threatening conditions, and the families who care for them.
Our research
At Rainbows, research is an important part of providing the best possible care. By building evidence, asking questions and learning from children, young people, families and professionals, we can develop our services, improve clinical practice and contribute to better children’s palliative care beyond Rainbows.
We’re a research-active hospice, taking part in national research studies as well as developing and leading our own research. As our research portfolio grows, we’re building the expertise and partnerships that will help Rainbows become a recognised leader in children’s palliative care research.
What we research
Our research is focused on areas that can make a meaningful difference to the care and experiences of children, young people and their families.
Our key areas of interest include holistic symptom management, bereavement support, communication skills, transition from children’s to adult services, staff wellbeing, equity of access to services, and creative and holistic therapies.
Research can help us understand what works well, where care could be improved and how services can evolve as the needs of children and families change.
Research shaped by people
Children, young people and families are central to our approach. We want their experiences and perspectives to help shape research so that the questions being explored reflect what really matters to the people who use children’s palliative care services.
We work in partnership with families and the public through Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement, helping make our research relevant, inclusive and meaningful.
Research that’s safe and ethical
Everyone should have the opportunity to be involved in research, but taking part is always a choice.
Our research is guided by four principles: inclusive, ethical, collaborative and impactful. We work within research governance and regulatory frameworks designed to protect the rights, dignity, safety and wellbeing of everyone involved.
See our research in action
Rainbows contributes to national research studies, develops research of our own and works with universities, hospices and other partners to build knowledge and improve children’s palliative care.