Ann Parkes – PRU Administrator

In April 2013 Ann Parkes joined PRU and the number of trials carried out here have rapidly expanded since she joined the team. Ann has been involved in developing our admin systems as the unit has grown. She is the PRU administrator and provides confidential secretarial and administrative support for the various research projects within PRU. She is the first point of contact for enquiries.

Administration in PRU is a varied and interesting role. As it is a Research Unit trial randomizations are an important process.  Ann works on many trials and there are often new trials beginning each year.  Currently she works across the following trials: PRODIGY COMPARE, BART, Stepwise, ifCBT.  Ann finds that working across a number of trials is very interesting and allows her to learn lots of new skills in clinical trials administration. She finds it particularly interesting learning more about psychosis and effective ways to support people with psychosis related difficulties.

As well as working across trials carrying out specific trial related duties she is also the main contact by phone and email for the unit. She deals with every day enquires and helps to sign post other calls when required. Ann is the administrator for the units Service User Reference Group (SURG). This involves supporting coordination of the meetings, which occur every two months. She particularly enjoys meeting with the SURG members and having the opportunity to hear about their experiences and opinions, and how this shapes research.

Ann does the day to day management of all of the unit’s finances, staffing, medical records, leave entitlements and all other admin duties. She books travel and accommodation for all the staff at PRU and helps with all recruitment for new staff posts at the unit. She particularly enjoys working at PRU and the opportunities it presents for personal development including attending the Recovery Academy Course on ‘Understanding Psychosis’.

Ann also attends our research unit days and gets to hear all about the recent developments in psychosis research. She intends on continually taking opportunities to develop clinical trials administration skills and better understanding the research systems.

Previous to working at PRU Ann has worked in various paid and voluntary roles. Voluntary roles have included a volunteer at Derian House Children’s Hospice in Chorley working on reception.  An assistant at Bolton’s Octagon Theatre working with a youth group of 11-18 year olds and as a Mentor at Bolton Lads and Girls Club. This completely changed her outlook on life!

Ann enjoys spending time with her 2 grown up sons and her grandchildren. She also enjoys holidays, walking, reading and socializing with friends.