NIHR James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnerships rolling call (EME Programme)

The Efficacy and Mechanism Evaluation (EME) Programme is accepting Stage 1 applications to this funding opportunity. The programme recognises the importance of the research priorities identified by the James Lind Alliance (JLA) Priority Setting Partnerships (PSP) and are interested in receiving high-quality applications which address them.

We are looking to receive applications for research studies addressing JLA PSPs' research priorities, rather than to conduct a PSP itself.

JLA PSP for digital technology in mental health care

The Covid-19 pandemic rapidly accelerated the use and adoption of digital technology in health and social care services, including mental health services. Examples of this include:

• video consultations
• apps
• wearable devices
• smartphones for accessing health information
• smart technology/artificial intelligence

Digital technologies can change how health care is delivered, making health and care services more accessible, flexible, person-centred, and a better experience for patients and staff, while also improving efficiency. However, while there are many potential benefits from increased use of digital tools, there is also an acknowledged risk of some people being digitally excluded, such as those with mental health conditions. The evidence base for digital mental health interventions, including demonstration of clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness in real-world settings, remains inadequate. The JLA PSP for digital technology in mental health care was established in 2018 to identify research priorities and opportunities for integrating digital technology for people with mental health conditions.

Through the JLA PSP rolling call, we would welcome applications addressing priorities within this particular JLA PSP, although applications are not restricted to this area of research.