What criteria are used for the allocation of funding to motor neurone research projects.

Research proposals received by the Chief Scientist Office (CSO) of the Scottish Executive Health Department on motor neurone disease and on any other health issue are assessed on the basis of their scientific quality and potential relevance to the health of the people in Scotland. Projects must be able to demonstrate “health gain” and potential to improve health care. Such assessments are made by expert peer and committee review and, following this, decisions on funding are made. Potential applicants are encouraged to discuss their research proposals with the CSO at an early stage, so that they can develop these in a way that most directly addresses Scotland’s public health and health services research needs.