Every Patch Tells a Story
Helping Kids feel supported through their Clinical Trial
Around 30% of trial participants drop out before the end, and in paediatric studies the stakes are higher still: a child's participation depends on everyone walking the journey with them. The Retention Patch Programme helps them stay, patch by patch.
Previous results
- +69%Randomisation
rate - 36.5%Reduction in
screen failure rate - +123%Increase in
qualified leads - +46%Enrolment
rate - 97%Patient satisfaction,
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The Retention Patch Programme
The Retention Patch Programme expands upon Oliver Patch Project's core mission and, together with Innovative Trials, they are bringing this initiative directly to the paediatric clinical trial community.
This collaborative effort rewards commitment, celebrates milestones, and strengthens engagement among a global network of families united by their clinical trial experiences.
At its core, the programme is dedicated to empowering children throughout their clinical trial journey.
By using this service to support children in your clinical trials, you will also be funding Oliver Patch Project's support of children and teens undergoing active cancer treatment.
How it works
Your sites worldwide receive beautifully packaged boxes filled with unique patches created just for your trial. Each design features imaginative characters that engage children and reassure parents.
Sites can hand out patches at each visit, or give the full box to parents so they can use them in the moments that matter most.
This flexibility lets families play an active role in their child's journey, adding encouragement and connection along the way. With every patch, children feel part of a global community of brave kids in clinical trials.
Innovative Trials proudly funds the special Welcome Patch, given to every child when they enrol.
The thought behind the vision
Each patch represents a child's place in a global community united against childhood disease. They're meaningful, collectible symbols that help children feel seen and supported throughout their trial.
Their bold designs spark conversation, ease stress, and offer a welcome distraction during visits.
Just as gold stars or karate belts motivate children, retention patches help parents acknowledge courage and celebrate bravery, patience, and progress.
They build resilience, strengthen the bond between families and study teams, and turn clinical trial participation into a more positive, empowering experience.
Nearly a third of participants never make it to the end.
Why it matters
You're not alone. You're one of many
Since 2024, the Retention Patch Programme has supported over 650 children and their families in more than 28 countries. Every patch is a small reminder that a child's study is part of something bigger than themselves.
Being brave deserves to be seen.
Every child taking part in a clinical trial is doing something brave. The Welcome Patch, funded by Innovative Trials for every study that joins the programme, marks that courage in a way a child can see, hold and be proud of.
A patch and a reminder they're capable.
A patch isn't just a symbol. Earned at every visit or milestone, it's a small, tangible reminder to every child that they're strong, resilient, and never alone on their journey.
What is the Retention Patch Programme?
A global partnership between Innovative Trials and the non-profit Oliver Patch Project, built to help children complete their paediatric trials with support every step of the way. Every enrolled child receives a free Welcome Patch, then earns a new one at every visit or milestone.
What is a Welcome Patch and why a dragon?
The first patch every child receives, funded by Innovative Trials at no cost to them, no exceptions. It takes the shape of a baby dragon in a red cape, designed to spark a child's imagination and represent the same strength, courage and fearlessness they show simply by taking part.
How does it work for our sites?
Participating sites receive a box of patches for every enrolled child, ready before their first visit. The first, the Welcome Patch, is funded by Innovative Trials at no cost. From there, children earn a new patch at every visit or milestone, giving them something to look forward to throughout the study.
Which studies is it suitable for?
The programme is built for paediatric studies, where a child's ongoing participation depends on the parents, families and carers walking the journey alongside them, not just the child.
Who is the Oliver Patch Project?
Our non-profit partner in the programme. 100% of proceeds from every additional patch sold goes straight back into their work, funding their mission beyond this partnership too.
Clarity on your enrolment risk starts with one conversation.