CRN Greater Manchester wins Inclusive Innovation award

Clinical Research Network (CRN) Greater Manchester won an award at the 2024 Northern Power Women Awards in recognition of its work in making research more inclusive. 

The awards, now in their eighth year, are the largest celebration of gender equality in Europe and showcase Northern-based trailblazing organisations and individuals (of all genders) who are exceptional role models and pioneers of positive change. 

The ceremony took place on 18 March 2024 at Manchester Central Convention Complex. 

CRN Greater Manchester took home the award for Inclusive Innovation which recognised nominations which are pursuing game changing innovation that has led to accelerating equality. 

The ceremony host, journalist and broadcaster Nina Hossain, told the packed audience:

“NIHR CRN Greater Manchester are transforming healthcare research in the region. Their mission focuses on the equity of access to health and care research for underserved communities, ensuring research represents Greater Manchester's diverse population. 

“They take research directly to communities including GP practices, schools, prisons and care homes, overcoming barriers such as cultural preconceptions and language. 

“The judges wanted to note that innovation in healthcare isn't easy, not least in the NHS. This team are doing incredible work that is changing the connectivity between research and underrepresented groups which is life changing.”

Sarah Fallon, CRN Greater Manchester Chief Operating Officer, said:

“The nominations in this category were outstanding and we felt very lucky to have been shortlisted among them. This award and what it represents is very personal to us.

“Together with our stakeholders and customers, we have three core values which are Inclusive Involvement as well as Relevant Research and Exceptional Experience. So to win an award that recognises our impact, leadership and continued commitment to ‘Inclusive Innovation’ for our communities means the world to us.”

The event, sponsored by professional services network EY, was attended by a host of inspiring role models including Manchester Corinthians Ladies Football Club, a team of rebels who defied the FA ban on women playing football during the 1950s, 60s, and 70s - becoming world superstars and beating the likes of Germany and Juventus.

Simone Roche, MBE, CEO of We Are Power, said:

“The truly exceptional line up of 2024 winners demonstrate everything we stand for: gender equality, diversity, business for good and prosperity. They show the enormous impact people can have on their industries and communities. The awards grow each year and we’re proud to showcase stand out leadership and incredible role models. Celebrating the power women of the North!” 

Stephen Church, Managing Partner at sponsors EY, said: 

"The level of competition this year was truly remarkable. We are incredibly impressed with all the individuals and organisations who were acknowledged and want to congratulate all of the well-deserved winners. We are proud to continue our sponsorship of the Northern Power Women Awards for the fourth consecutive year, continuing our commitment to advancing gender equality in the UK. It's important for us at EY to be working with organisations whose values align with our own."