There are two main definitions of the word ‘volunteer’ in relation to a person, rather than an action. They are someone who freely offers to take part in something or undertake a task, or someone who works for an organization without being paid.

In the world of clinical trials, the majority of trial participants are unpaid volunteers, who freely give of their time and physiology in order to further the cause of clinical research.

Unfortunately, I think at times some patients involved in trials might consider themselves to be more like the volunteers who joined the military in the First World War, with the same kind of recognition and levels of communication afforded to those mired in the trenches.

Volunteering for a trial is a big commitment – and one not to be taken lightly. So treating volunteers with respect just seems as though it should be an essential part of the process.