This article presents the historical development of research and development at the English National Board (ENB) in relation to its statutory function. The author explains the commissioning process in general terms to help prospective applicants to understand how the Board assesses research proposals and awards contracts

The ENB is a statutory body which was established in 1983 through the Nurses, Midwives and Health Visitors Act 1979, which led to the setting up of the four National Boards and the UKCC. The Act was amended in 1992, changing some of the Board's functions, particularly in relation to the funding of nursing and midwifery education. Some of the statutory functions, most relevant to its Research & Development (R&D) function are listed in Box 1.