The announcement was made during a special research and collaboration session in Luton, which brought together researchers, healthcare professionals and charity leaders to explore how academic insight could continue to drive real-world impact.
Our CEO, Liz Searle, opened the session with a powerful reminder of why this work matters more than ever:
“There could never be a more important time to build the research and evidence base for palliative care – so we can speak loudly about what it does, and why it matters.”
It was a sentiment that struck at the heart of our approach. At Keech, we have remained committed to making sure our services reflect the diverse, complex, and changing needs of the people we support – and research has been key to doing that well.
Turning Research Into Action
This wasn’t just about academic reports or white papers. It was about people.
Our existing partnership with the University of Bedfordshire had already delivered meaningful change – including a PhD-led study into the needs of children and families, which directly influenced how we shaped and delivered our children’s services. With the expanded partnership, we took the next step.
The new phase of research focused on underserved groups, including the local Eastern European community – ensuring our care continued to be inclusive and culturally responsive.
As Liz said on the day:
“For those of you who are researchers, you’ll know how powerful it is to see your work lead to tangible improvements in people’s lives. That’s what made this partnership so special.”
A Timely Moment for the Sector
The renewed partnership came at a pivotal time for the wider palliative care sector. With national discussions around assisted dying legislation in the spotlight, there was an urgent need to articulate the unique, holistic value of hospice and palliative care.
We believed research could help us do that – by providing the data, insights, and stories needed to demonstrate why this care matters, and why it must be protected and evolved.
Professor Nasreen Ali, Professor of Public Health Equality at the University of Bedfordshire, captured that ambition perfectly:
“Every idea starts somewhere. Research is about curiosity, connection and creating impact – and this collaboration aimed to keep that spirit alive.”
Looking Ahead
This partnership has always been about more than projects or publications. It has been about what happens next – in our hospices, in our communities, and in the lives of those we care for.
Together with the University of Bedfordshire, we haven’t just imagined what better palliative care could look like – we’ve worked together to build it.
And we’ve done it the Keech way: with compassion, collaboration, and a deep belief in the power of care informed by evidence and driven by people.