Collaborative National Centre for Chiropractic Research to Launch in 2025

The Chiropractic Research Council (CRC) has gifted its funds to the new National Centre for Chiropractic Research (NCCR) based at Health Sciences University (HSU) and in partnership with London South Bank University, McTimoney College, Teesside University, and the University of South Wales. The NCCR will be the UK’s leading centre for chiropractic research, with a progressive, unifying vision. It will advance scientific understanding and the clinical application of evidence-based chiropractic care. As a research hub, it will explore key questions relevant to the profession and support integration within the UK healthcare system.

Established in 2013 and funded by members of the British Chiropractic Association (BCA), the CRC has provided leadership and unity in chiropractic research for the benefit of UK chiropractic patients and the wider public. They have played a key role in developing a national research strategy and supported researchers at all levels, and they are delighted to have gifted the remaining funds to the new NCCR to work in partnership across academic institutions and the profession to continue building research capacity and supporting the next generation of chiropractic researchers.

Dr. Julie Northam, HSU’s Head of Research, said: “We are delighted that the NCCR is being launched this year, which marks both the BCA’s centenary and 60 years since chiropractic education began at HSU.”

Professor David Newell, HSU, noted: “The Centre has ambitions to become a world-leading research centre over the next five to ten years for research relevant to the chiropractic profession.” Dr Alister Du Rose, AECC School of Chiropractic Research Lead at HSU, added: “It represents a significant investment in research into chiropractic care, with the potential to positively impact healthcare worldwide.”

The NCCR has recently received the funding from the CRC, which will formally wind up in 2025. These funds will be distributed by the NCCR via open competitive calls to support impactful research. Louise Hampton, CRC Chair, remarked: “It’s inspiring to see the CRC’s aims evolve through the NCCR, and we’re excited to witness its unified approach to advancing research.” The NCCR will also facilitate joint funding bids to major research bodies. Dr Philip Dewhurst, Associate Professor at HSU, said: “The source of the CRC funding is the BCA membership who can feel proud that they have contributed to a new era in research relevant to the chiropractic profession.”

Professor Adrian Hunnisett, Research Director at McTimoney College, said: “This funding will enable the Centre to invest in high-quality, impactful chiropractic research across institutions, healthcare providers and policymakers, shaping the future of chiropractic care.”

Mark Thomas, Senior Lecturer at LSBU, highlighted the Centre’s collaborative approach: “The Centre aims to ensure a truly cooperative effort between UK chiropractic educational institutions.” Faye Deane, Senior Lecturer at Teesside University, added: “All UK chiropractic institutions involved in the NCCR’s development will be represented on its steering committee.”

Professor David Byfield, Head of Clinical Services at the University of South Wales, commented: “The NCCR is an innovative collaboration between chiropractic providers and the BCA, building a strong research profile to progress the profession in the UK. Its vision aligns with the BCA’s centenary goal of advancing and securing the profession’s future. The BCA remains a beacon of knowledge, professionalism, and clinical excellence, qualities that will continue to evolve through its work with the NCCR.”

Daniel Moore, Senior Lecturer at Teesside University, explained that the NCCR’s work will be guided by a National Advisory Stakeholder Group: “This group will provide external insight, strategic advice, and stakeholder perspectives to ensure the Centre’s research is relevant and impactful for the chiropractic profession, government, and society.”

The NCCR will also establish an External Peer Review College to independently evaluate funding proposals submitted through competitive calls. This ensures funding decisions are transparent, rigorous, and grounded in academic excellence. A call for expressions of interest to join the Peer Review College will be launched this year.

The launch of the NCCR is a landmark step in advancing the profession through high-quality research and deeper integration into UK healthcare. To be the first to hear about updates and opportunities to get involved with the NCCR, please email research@aecc.ac.uk