The Clinical Trials Charter aims to set a standard of practice for those involved in clinical trials for Parkinson’s. 

As a potential volunteer for a clinical trial in Parkinson’s, you have a choice whether to take part or not. In making the decision to volunteer for a particular trial, you are forming a partnership with the organisers of the trial. The Clinical Trials Charter is a guide to best practice around your commitment within that partnership. 

The Clinical Trials Charter

Before the trial

Read all available information about the trial so that you fully understand what will be involved. 

  • Understand any potential risks and benefits of your involvement in this trial as explained to you by the trial coordinators. 
  • Discuss the pros and cons of the trial with people whose opinions you value before deciding whether or not to volunteer. 
  • Carefully read through the ‘Informed Consent’ form and keep a signed copy. 
  • Choose to participate only when you are satisfied that the purpose of this study is important to you, and when you have established what it involves and what you might expect. 
  • Commit to taking part in the trial until its completion whilst being aware that you can withdraw if you choose. 

During the trial – talk to the research team:

  • If you have any questions or concerns, 
  • If you experience changes to symptoms or side-effects
  • If there is any emergency 
  • About your appointments or any visits to the trial centre
  • To be aware of what experiences might occur and to whom these should be reported. 

After the trial – help future studies by communicating with the trial team:

  • Share your opinion of the trial and the quality of care at the trial centre
  • Speak openly about how the trial affected you, positively or negatively
  • Make suggestions on how the trial might have been improved
  • Consider becoming a ‘Clinical Trials Ambassador’.