Aims Cochlear implants (CI) are transformative for individuals with severe-to-profound hearing loss, yet barriers to appropriate referrals persist in the UK. Despite UK guidelines, underutilisation remains prevalent. This abstract aims to examine the role of a trainee research collaborative in identifying and addressing referral failures and contributing factors. Methodology A multidisciplinary collaborative of Otolaryngology and Audiovestibular trainees, and Audiologists collected UK national data over six months. Patients meeting audiometric criteria for CI referral were identified using the British Cochlear Implant Group CI Referral Report in units employing Auditbase software. Demographic, audiological, and unit-specific characteristics were extracted, and binary logistic regression analysed factors influencing referral likelihood. Results The collaborative enabled data collection across 36 centres in England, Scotland, and Wales, identifying 6171 eligible patients. Only 9% were referred for assessment nationally, with geographic and institutional variability. Regression modelling revealed disparities: patients were less likely to be referred and/or informed of their eligibility if they were Asian or Black, older, lived in deprived areas, had less severe hearing loss, or resided in specific regions. By engaging trainees across diverse institutions, a systemic gap was highlighted—85% of centres had not used the CI Referral Report. The collaborative operationalised the report at these centres and fostered a research culture for its ongoing use. Actionable insights included targeted educational initiatives and automated patient identification methods to streamline referrals. Conclusion This study underscores the value of trainee-led collaboratives in tackling healthcare challenges. By analysing data from 6171 patients, it offers recommendations to improve CI referral pathways. This trainee-led approach exemplifies how collaborative research can drive systemic change.