Gaining NHS Permission for clinical research
The NIHR Coordinated System for gaining NHS Permission (NIHR CSP) standardises and streamlines the process of gaining NHS Permission (also known as R&D approval) for commercial and non-commercial clinical research studies in England.
CSP is available for studies that are eligible for inclusion on the NIHR Portfolio. All applications, both commercial and non-commercial, are assessed to determine whether they are eligible to use CSP.
Find out more about eligibility criteria.
CSP is coordinated through the 25 Comprehensive Local Research Networks (CLRNs), in collaboration with a central CSP Unit.
Find out how to apply to use CSP, for both commercial and non-commercial studies and also who to contact if you need help.
Research studies are reviewed for inclusion in the NIHR CRN Portfolio in parallel with the Ethics review and the NIHR CSP process. Commercial studies in CSP
NIHR CSP is the recommended route for companies to gain NHS Permission. Non-commercial studies in CSP
NIHR CSP is the only route to having a study included in the NIHR CRN Portfolio. Overview of the CSP process
Before accessing NIHR CSP you need to check our information on commercial and non-commercial studies to establish your eligibility. Help and guidance
If you have any questions about NIHR CSP, including how to access NIHR CSP through IRAS, or you would like to give any feedback or suggestions, contact the NIHR CSP Helpdesk. Resources
Download copies of our leaflets, Operating Manual and other information to help NHS R&D staff. RDMIS CSP Module
The CSP Module is the system used by staff across NHS organisations and the Clinical Research Network to support the NIHR Coordinated System for gaining NHS Permission (CSP). It was introduced in stages starting in July 2011. 
