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National Institute for Health and Care Research

RPSC Commissioned Call - June 2026

Funds UK social care research, up to £350,000, across three commissioned application routes.

This runs as a two-stage process: an outline application first, and only shortlisted proposals go on to a full application. How much of a project's real cost NIHR actually funds depends on the applicant's organisation — universities get 80% of full economic costs covered, while NHS Trusts, charities and local authorities can have 100% covered, so a university-led project's true cost can run above

The Research Programme for Social Care is commissioning evaluative research into methods development, adaptation and implementation within social care, alongside two rolling routes: proposals that address NICE guidance evidence gaps, and proposals that respond to James Lind Alliance patient-and-public research priorities. All three routes must fall within RPSC's methods-development remit rather than being general social care studies.

CycleiHow often this grant runs - e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.No fixed schedule
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.30 Sept 2026
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.-
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.1–24 months
Award typeiThe form of funding - grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.-
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.-

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