West Midlands Research Contributions Celebrated at Network Awards

From technological innovations to amplifying the voices of minority populations – the range of clinical research in the West Midlands has been celebrated at an awards ceremony.

Those involved in delivering research all over the region gathered at the NIHR Clinical Research Network West Midlands’ eighth Annual Awards at Grand Central in Wolverhampton, where their achievements were recognised.

Trophies were presented to Partner Organisations  in 10 categories including Research Contribution of the Year and a Patient and Public Engagement Award.

The Network’s Clinical Director Professor Matthew Brookes, one of the presenters of the Awards, said: ‘The aim of this event is to celebrate the innovative work undertaken and the commitment demonstrated by health and care colleagues to improve the region's capacity and capability for research delivery. 

‘This is the eighth year of the Awards, and the standard of entries was very high again, giving the judges a real challenge. We congratulate all the winners and those who were highly commended.’

Also presenting was Carly Craddock, Chief Operating Officer of the Network, who said: ‘All those recognised demonstrate a positive impact on the Network and far beyond.  We are so pleased to be able to let our colleagues know how much we value their contribution and give them the chance to share their achievements with their peers.’

Ruth Lambley-Burke, Head of Research & Innovation at Midlands Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, which was among the organisations involved in the SSSHERPa project, Winners of the Shining Research Star Award, said: ‘We are delighted to get recognition like this – it’s testament to the hard work of everyone involved. It is also a great boost for all those staff who are working on research, to further benefit their patients. I salute all the partners involved in this important work.’

Professor David Loughton CBE, Group Chief Executive of The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, which hosts the Network, added: ‘It’s always a pleasure to present these Awards and get an insight into the great research that’s going on all over the region.’   Professor Loughton was presented with a special award at the event - Outstanding Support for Research, as he will be retiring next year.

Here is the full list of Award Winners and the Citations for the Winners.

ENDS

For further information, copies of the citations, or photos of the event, contact:  Claire Hall, Communications Lead on 07775 800227. www.local.nihr.ac.uk/lcrn/west-midlands