Bradford University to Lead £2.4m National Swallowing Care Trial

New research to evaluate thickened fluids for swallowing difficulties

The University of Bradford has secured £2.4 million in funding from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) to lead a national clinical trial investigating care for people with swallowing difficulties, including those with dementia and neurological conditions.

About the INGEST Trial

The trial, named INGEST (dIscontinuing or continuiNG thickEned fluidS Trial), is led by Dr Lindsey Collins, Associate Professor at the Centre for Applied Dementia Studies. It aims to assess the clinical and cost effectiveness of stopping the use of thickened fluids, a common but debated treatment for dysphagia (swallowing difficulties).

The trial will recruit 366 adults with slowly progressing dysphagia who have been using thickened fluids for at least one month. Participants will be randomly assigned to either continue or discontinue thickened fluids, with outcomes monitored over 12 months.

Key Features of the Trial

• A co-designed discontinuation protocol developed with input from clinicians, carers, and people with lived experience
• A mixed-methods process evaluation to understand real-world implementation
• A cost-effectiveness analysis to support NHS resource planning
• A focus on inclusivity, including strategies to engage underrepresented groups

Collaboration and Support

The trial is conducted in partnership with the York Trials Unit and involves experts in speech and language therapy, health economics, behavioural science, and public and patient involvement. It has received support from several organisations, including:

• The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT)
• The NIHR Yorkshire and Humber Patient Safety Research Collaboration
• The British Dietetic Association
• The NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board
• Multiple NHS Trusts and speech and language therapy services across the UK

Involvement of People with Lived Experience

The trial has been co-produced with individuals who have direct experience of dysphagia, including those living with dementia, progressive neurological conditions, and family carers. Their input has influenced the design, outcome measures, and communication materials used in the study.

Significance of the Research

Thickened fluids are routinely prescribed within the NHS for people with swallowing difficulties, but evidence supporting their benefits remains limited. Concerns about patient experience have also been raised. This trial seeks to address these uncertainties and provide clearer guidance for clinicians, carers, and decision-makers.

For more information about the INGEST trial and its progress, visit the University of Bradford website.