RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 20 Small group research in the east of england: a novel approach to palliative medicine research training JF BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care JO BMJ Support Palliat Care FD British Medical Journal Publishing Group SP A18 OP A18 DO 10.1136/bmjspcare-2018-ASPabstracts.47 VO 8 IS Suppl 1 A1 Chin, Chloe A1 Grove, Sarah A1 Treaddell, Sarah A1 Barclay, Stephen A1 Spathis, Anna YR 2018 UL http://spcare.bmj.com/content/8/Suppl_1/A18.1.abstract AB Background Research is essential to advance the evidence base of Palliative Medicine. Few clinical trainees have the opportunity to become involved in research studies or to receive research training, which hampers trainees’ ability to attain research competencies. Attending research courses may improve knowledge about research but are no substitute for participating in a study. Rotation of trainees also hinders completion of projects once started.Aim To improve clinical trainee involvement in research to facilitate achievement of research competencies.Development of novel approach A UK-wide survey of research training was undertaken. It found that over 75% of regions had no regular research training available. Only one region had a research training programme available for all Palliative Medicine trainees.A programme was devised whereby East of England trainees were organised pragmatically by job location into a small research groups. Four out of twelve monthly study days were dedicated to research projects and training. Two clinical academic Palliative Medicine consultants provided supervision and met with all project groups twice yearly for advice and guidance.Outcomes Since programme inception in 2015, outputs have included two poster and one oral presentations at national and international conferences, and one peer-reviewed journal publication. Three further projects are ongoing. Prior to the programme, research outputs were rare.Participants report that project completion was facilitated by sharing workload amongst trainees, and by keeping projects location-based with newly rotating trainees providing continuity. The regional research meetings provided peer-to-peer support, the groups learning from each other’s experiences.Conclusion This novel approach has enhanced trainee research skills, experience and outputs. This form of research training programme could be readily adopted across the UK, being largely trainee-led: only intermittent support from consultants with an interest in research is needed.