https://www.gosh.nhs.uk/our-research/our-research-infrastructure/nihr-great-ormond-street-hospital-brc/nihr-gosh-brc-and-crf-joint-support-research-strategies/patient-and-public-involvement-engagement-ppie-hub/guidance-on-receiving-payments-and-expenses-reimbursements/
Guidance on receiving Payments and Expenses Reimbursements
We know that Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) representatives will have taken time out of their schedules to undertake their PPI activities. In line with National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) guidance on payments, GOSH BRC advises researchers to offer £25.00 per hour of time spent on these activities. The NIHR also advises that all expenses incurred for PPI be reimbursed. Please note that payments are badged as ‘honorarium’ payments and do not mean that our PPI representatives have a contract of employment with the organisation.
Process for processing payments and expenses
Each department at GOSH will have its own process for processing payments and expenses. Those leading PPI activity will be guided on how to do this. PPI representatives will be asked to submit details for this process. Personal information will only be shared with those staff who are required to help with the process, e.g. finance or administrative teams.
Accountability and Responsibility
As a major public sector organisation within the NHS, GOSH is publicly accountable for all resources. Payments to Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) representatives must be made in line with the GOSH Standing Financial Instructions (SFIs) and statutory HMRC regulations.
Receiving payment of a fee for involvement in research is likely to have implications whether a PPI representative is currently employed, unemployed, receiving state benefits or retired. This is because the payment received will be treated as earnings. There are a number of ways in which receiving payment for involvement may affect current financial situations.
We cannot answer all of the questions a PPI representative might have about being offered payment for involvement; it is a complex area and it would be difficult to cover everyone’s individual circumstances. If a PPI representative has any concerns, we strongly advise you to get expert advice about your own personal financial circumstances before accepting payment for involvement in research.
Find more detailed information on NIHR payments for PPI representatives.
Benefits Advice Service
Declining payment
We understand that some PPI representatives may choose to decline payment for a variety of interests and that some may choose to ask for a lower amount, which might be important for individuals receiving welfare benefits or choose to donate their payment to a charity of their choice. However, GOSH cannot donate or otherwise reallocate the payment on any individual’s behalf.