I have many things to thank Dr Joan Gandy for. As well as her warm hospitality during visits to her home and dog walks in Cassiobury Park, she has given me opportunities to work together on the Oxford Handbook of Nutrition and Dietetics and to contribute to the Manual of Dietetic Practice. Her latest encouragement led me to apply to the charity, NDR-UK, to join their Board as a Trustee and to a steep learning curve about the production of evidence-based resources for nutrition and dietetics.

As a dietitian that’s worked in the NHS and education, I completely understand the need for the best written materials to support patients, carers and students and, wearing my research hat, firmly believe that these should be resolutely based on the latest relevant evidence. 

What I’m learning is that these resources don’t just appear from a wish list (if only!) but at NDR-UK they are carefully developed using a defined process with contributions from project groups comprising teams of experienced dietitians who volunteer their time and expertise. This is followed by wider consultations and refinement and, finally, graphic design and production.  The end result is a far cry from my early career efforts to make information sheets with clip art that were photocopied onto coloured paper, if available, otherwise plain white - so last century!

And, as every dietitian knows, it’s not just about giving out information but individualising this to each person so that it takes account of their needs.  I’m learning about how NDR-UK addresses this through Prescribe where advice can be tailored with goals and follow up plans and then a personalised version is sent directly to the patient / client. I’m guessing that for virtual consults and phone follow ups this is particularly useful.

As well as supporting dietitians, NDR-UK produces some resources specifically for other health professionals and some for patients with each resource being evaluated and classified to indicate which group it is best suited for.  As NDR-UK is a charity and not-for-profit, there is no concern about potential conflicts of interest.  Regular reviews and risk assessments help ensure that all resources are kept up to data and relevant and I particularly love the opportunities offered to participate in project groups focusing on specific topics – a fabulous way to do CPD and contribute to disseminating evidence-based nutrition messages beyond a single department or Trust.  I’m not a fan of ‘one-size-fits-all’ but this process makes me wonder that if similar resources are being designed and reviewed regularly up and down the country, would pooling this task through NDR-UK project groups help save time as well as ensure high standards and the consistent use of the latest best evidence?  I think about the challenges including those controversial words like bread rolls, cobs, baps and buns … but in spite of these, I believe there is opportunity for a health economic research project!

So far, I have been very impressed by the team at NDR-UK and I hope I can contribute some useful ideas and enthusiasm during my time as Trustee.  Joan, thanks for the encouragement and chance to get involved!