This project involved sourcing 108 clinical research nurses for a UK-wide mobile cancer detection study. The study utilised seven mobile phlebotomy units located across various UK regions to access over 170,000 participants. The trial was originally set to last three years

A key challenge of the project was ensuring adequate staffing coverage across a range of geographically diverse and, in some cases, remote locations. Each mobile unit operated within a designated region (e.g., London & Kent, North East England, East Anglia), rotating to a new site approximately every four to five weeks. This required the recruitment of highly flexible clinical staff willing to work in a mobile capacity and adapt quickly to new environments.

Additionally, EMS Healthcare planned scheduled breaks in study activity lasting between two to four months depending on location. This presented a further challenge in maintaining workforce continuity, necessitating strategic planning to retain staff during downtime or efficiently onboard replacements as needed.

The recruitment process was managed by our experienced in-house clinical contracts team, who brought extensive expertise in delivering large-scale research nurse recruitment projects. Their coordinated approach ensured the efficient and timely hiring of staff, maintaining consistency and continuity across all study sites.

We also leveraged our dedicated in-house HR and payroll team to support senior staff, oversee onboarding and training, manage welfare and payment queries, and provide ongoing HR support throughout the duration of the study.

By implementing targeted recruitment strategies—including niche advertising and professional networking—we successfully secured all 108 nurses within four months. Each nurse was thoroughly screened, onboarded, and prepared to commence work between September and November 2021.

The project ran successfully, with the first year marking a major milestone in terms of recruitment and delivery. Having a dedicated recruitment and HR team proved critical to maintaining staffing levels and ensuring staff welfare. Throughout the study, we adapted our approach based on the client’s evolving needs, providing flexible and reliable support until its conclusion.

A Review from EMS Healthcare
“CK played a major role in enabling us to staff one of the largest cancer detection studies to date. After reviewing several providers, CK stood out for their market knowledge and their comprehensive approach to staffing and HR support.

The team fully understood our requirements and ensured we had the right number of staff at the right times, resulting in a smooth rollout. Their familiarity with the regions and access to a broad network of professionals across the UK was fundamental to the success of our service delivery.”

Helen Jones, Clinical Services Director, EMS Healthcare