UKRIO was initially funded as a pilot project by a broad stakeholder group, including the UK Higher Education Funding Councils, the UK Departments of Health, the Research Councils, research charities and a variety of other organisations. In line with the original proposal for UKRIO, we are now expanding the pool of funders, and seeking support from universities, NHS organisations the Department of Health, other Government Departments and research organisations such as public and private sector research institutes and industry.
The cost of continuing the work of UKRIO is modest compared with the ambitious plans that some stakeholders envisaged as necessary for a research integrity body. The cost is also minimal compared to the consequences of research misconduct at a time when the Government’s plans emphasise the role of research in economic recovery. UKRIO operates cheaply and cost-effectively, with a small staff backed by an Advisory Board and a panel of expert advisers, both of which work pro bono. We remain a not-for-profit organisation and are seeking charitable status.
Following a positive response, institutions which have agreed to support us include research-intensive universities such as Universities supporting UKRIO include Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, King’s College London, Liverpool, Manchester, Nottingham, Oxford, Sheffield, University College London and Warwick, as well as other research-intensive universities and those which are still developing their research portfolios. Some of these universities have used our services in the past, while others are only just appreciating the benefits of our expertise.
Researchers, research participants, patients and the public will continue to find our services free at the point of delivery. We do not place barriers in the way of anyone with concerns about the conduct of research. Our approach supports the UK’s reputation by improving the conduct of research and by bringing concerns to the attention of appropriate organisations, such as employers, when they would remain unaware of them until they hit the press.
UKRIO will not share confidential information about our work with our supporters or any other third parties. If you would like more information on our changing model of funding, please contact us.