The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) has big plans to improve healthcare. They’re investing £157 million over 5 years to support 10 new research groups, called Applied Research Collaborations (ARCs), starting in April 2026. These groups will work together to make the NHS 10 Year Plan and other health goals a reality. Universities, hospitals, local councils, and other organizations will join forces to tackle important health and care challenges. Health Innovation Minister, Zubir Ahmed, said this funding will speed up important discoveries. He believes it will help move research from labs to people’s homes and shift the focus from treating illnesses to preventing them. He also said that every pound invested is a step towards better health for all. Professor Lucy Chappell, a top advisor, explained that this funding shows NIHR’s commitment to high-quality research. It will help bring new treatments and technologies to patients, supporting the government’s health plan. Additionally, there’s extra funding for specific research priorities and a new network for these research groups. Professor Marian Knight highlighted the importance of these groups in finding evidence for new technologies, treatments, and care methods.