Sheffield NHS Trust one of first in country to appoint new Dementia research nurse
It's hoped it will help with new research into the condition
Last updated 27th Feb 2026
People across South Yorkshire are amongst the first in the country to have more opportunities to take part in pioneering dementia research.
It's as a new dedicated dementia research nurse is being appointed in Sheffield.
Jo Howe, Alzheimer’s Society UKDTN Research Nurse and Senior Dementia Research Sister at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, is Sheffield's first dementia research nurse.
She said:
“I am honoured to be part of the first UK-wide network of dementia research nurses. My main aim is to promote dementia research to both staff and the public and make it easier for people to get involved. I want to raise awareness of available research opportunities and support individuals in taking part. Through this, I hope to make dementia research more inclusive and accessible for everyone. Along the way, I also aim to build strong connections between healthcare teams, researchers, and people affected by dementia, ensuring that research is guided by lived experiences and leads to better support and care.”
Laura Rooney, Lead Research Nurse at Alzheimer’s Society, explained:
“Research will beat dementia, the UK’s biggest killer. We’re making real progress in finding effective dementia treatments and diagnostic tests - and clinical trials are the only way to know if they work. We know people living with dementia are keen to take part in research and find it incredibly rewarding, but so few are offered the opportunity. We urgently need to expand the number of clinical trials available, with our research nurses increasing visibility and access to opportunities so that more people living with dementia from all backgrounds can take part.”