In 1988, a new research centre was set up to provide an academic base for researchers exploring services for people with learning difficulties. It was named after Norah Fry , whose life had been devoted to improving the quality of life for people with learning difficulties during the first half of this century. Projects at the Norah Fry Research Centre are funded entirely by research grants that can vary in length from a few days to a year or more. All projects share a common purpose in working to improve services for people with learning difficulties. This might be done directly, by publishing research findings which influence legislation and the provision of services, or indirectly by empowering service users and carers so that they are able to influence services.
Policy analysis is a key part of our work.
Clear Communication One of our central concerns is that people with learning difficulties are fully involved with research that is related to them. Many of our publications have accessible sections. For example, Plain Facts is a magazine which presents research findings to people with learning difficulties. It is available in large print or on tape. Shared Care Network Shared Care Network is the umbrella organisation representing shared care services in England and Northern Ireland.