Funding boost for falls research in Yorkshire

A three year research project by the  Yorkshire Ambulance Service Research Institute will help improve understanding of the health implications for older people who fall at home and where demands on ambulances mean they are there for a prolonged period.

The £700k funding from the National Institute for Health and Care Research is focused on what is called the ‘long lie’, which the Institute says is ‘undignified and uncomfortable for patients but it may cause serious physical and psychological complications, in some cases worse than the injuries caused by the fall.’ The project will look at patient safety, complications and the impact on recovery.

“There are long-standing concerns about patients in the community who may have been at risk from complications from long lies, and no one wants patients to be left on the floor for any longer than necessary.  I am delighted that this research has been funded, hosted by YASRI, as it will produce valuable information to inform future plans across the country to provide optimal care and prevent harm to patients.”

Dr Julian Mark, Executive Medical Director of Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust.

Ten percent of emergency 999 calls to Yorkshire Ambulance Service relate to patients who have fallen. The study will look at how long lies are currently managed or mitigated both prior to an ambulance arriving and until the patient reaches definitive care, by surveying and speaking to health care professionals, social care staff, patients and their relatives. 

The Yorkshire Ambulance Service Research Institute was launched in 2023, but Yorkshire Ambulance Service has been involved in ambulance research since 2008. The Institute will manage the three year project and develop recommendations to reduce the risk of adverse outcomes for patients following a fall.

To read similar articles, check out our Frontline channel.