Throughout October, we're showcasing our Nottinghamshire Healthcare colleagues, and the path they have taken into research. To discover Your Path in Research, visit the National Institute of Health Research website for information and inspiration.

Speech and Language Therapist Lisa Everton shares her journey into research, including her vision to improve the lives of stroke survivors.

Who or what inspired you to get involved in research?

I was given an opportunity by a medical colleague years ago which opened the door for me. I think in my path, my medical colleagues have created opportunities for Allied Health Professionals (AHPs). As AHPs develop their own careers, we also hope to be creating opportunities for AHPs ourselves.

How has working on research projects changed your day-to-day practice?

It’s made me more questioning and reflective of my practice. It makes me ask questions about how effective treatments are, what the evidence for those treatments is, and go looking for them and critically appraise them.

How would you encourage your colleagues to get involved with research?

If you have a research idea, make contact with other research active colleagues in your area of interest – this can be AHPs, Drs, Nurses, Psychologists. Reach out and ask for advice to get started in the right direction. Also look at the NIHR Research Careers Pathway and ask research colleagues about internships and bridging awards to get started in research.

What's your research ambition?

I would like to develop a new simple, effective treatment for stroke survivors who have swallowing difficulties.

How does research make a difference to the NHS? (Or to your service?)

Research improves patient outcomes, improves efficiency in healthcare, increases staff satisfaction and confidence, and also improves public confidence in the services we are providing.

To discover what your path in research might be, take a look online or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.