Searching and training

Evidence searching

The library can help you find the information you need. We offer a range of search reports from rapid searches to more in-depth results.

To request a search, please complete our online request form.

Please note – this service is not available to students, but we are happy to offer search skills training sessions to help you conduct your own searches. Please contact us to find out more.

Search skills training

In order to enable NHS staff and students on placement to access the best health information resources available to them, qualified information professionals within the library teams offer evidence search skills training opportunities as follows:

• Individual sessions – One-to-one sessions available on demand.
• Group sessions – Bespoke sessions for groups/specialties/departments.

Both types of session are available face-to-face or via MS Teams, and can range from bitesize sessions to more in-depth sessions as required.

Please contact us to arrange any of these sessions.

Additional training resources

If you would like to do some self-studying, these modules and tips will help you build confidence in conducting literature searches relevant to your work, research or study:

• Quick guide to searching the NHS Knowledge & Library Hub 
• Advanced database searching guides:
  • EBSCO databases - including CINAHL, Medline, Psychology & Behavioural Sciences Collection, GreenFILE
  • Ovid databases - including HMIC, EMBASE, EMCARE, Medline
  • ProQuest databases - including AMED, BNI, Medline, PsycINFO, PsycArticles, Health Research Collection
• How to search the literature effectively – Short modules on searching provided by the e-Learning for Healthcare platform
• Literature Searching Modules – Six modules on searching provided by Library Knowledge Services (North)
• Using AND/OR – A short video on using AND/OR when searching

Critical appraisal skills training

The library can also offer basic critical appraisal skills training, including introductory medical statistics. Please contact us ​​​​​​ to find out more.

Additional resources:

Critically appraising the evidence base ​​​​​​​ – An online programme via the eLearning for Healthcare platform including 8 brief sessions on basic critical appraisal skills and tools.

Other training sessions

• Study skills training – We offer training on a wide range of study skills such as academic writing and referencing.
• Writing for Publication – An introductory session that covers finding the right journal, open access publishing, writing style and structure
• Health Literacy training – Sessions designed for healthcare staff who want to boost their health literacy skills and support patients in finding, understanding, and applying health information
• Please contact us to find out more about any of these training sessions.