NIHR Coordinated System for gaining NHS Permission

We ensure that all quality assurance and statutory requirements in respect of clinical research are met, through standardising and streamlining the process for gaining NHS Permission in England

NIHR CSP: csp graphic

Provides a single point of entry, via the Integrated Research Application System (IRAS), for investigators applying for NHS permission for single site and multi-site studies
Defines and carries out checks that only need to be done once, and those that are required for each NHS location/organisation
Reduces the time to gain NHS permissions which meet all governance and regulatory requirements
Ensures clarity regarding the roles and responsibilities of Sponsors, Investigators, Networks and Trusts
Links with other processes alongside NHS review and permission, including gaining ethics and other regulatory approvals
Has time targets built into the process
Works in parallel to the ethics review and the NIHR CRN Portfolio adoption process
Has knowledgeable and dedicated staff, both locally and centrally, to assist you with your application and its progress towards NHS Permission.

Find out how to apply to use CSP, for both commercial and non-commercial studies and also who to contact if you need help.

Who can use CSP? 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.
Frequently asked questions

CSP is coordinated through the 25 Comprehensive Local Research Networks (CLRNs), in collaboration with a central CSP Unit.