An innovative AI-supported spirometry service is helping to improve respiratory diagnostics across North East and North Cumbria. By combining artificial intelligence with specialist clinical expertise, the programme is increasing access to high-quality spirometry testing, supporting healthcare staff, and helping patients receive earlier diagnosis of respiratory conditions. The approach is reducing pressure on the workforce while strengthening clinical capacity, ensuring more people can access timely, accurate care closer to home. It is a great example of how innovation can support both staff and patients, delivering practical improvements in healthcare services across the region. Read the full case study in the NENC Innovation Library: AI‑Supported Spirometry & workforce transformation
September 3, 2026
An innovative workforce development programme from Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has been shortlisted for a Regional Healthcare Science Award, recognising its contribution to developing skills, supporting staff and strengthening the future healthcare workforce. The programme was designed to create new opportunities for learning and professional development, helping individuals build the knowledge, confidence and expertise needed to thrive in healthcare science roles. By investing in staff development and creating clear pathways for progression, the initiative is supporting both workforce sustainability and high-quality patient care. The award shortlisting highlights the impact of innovative approaches to workforce development and demonstrates the value of nurturing talent across the health and care system. It […]
August 27, 2026
An innovative approach to cardiac monitoring is helping to support safer antipsychotic prescribing while improving the experience for patients and clinicians. Featured in the Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria (HI NENC) Innovation Library, this case study explores how AliveCor handheld ECG technology has been used to provide quick, accessible heart rhythm monitoring for people receiving antipsychotic medication. By bringing ECG testing closer to patients, the initiative has helped to streamline care, reduce delays, and support clinical decision-making. The project demonstrates how digital innovation can improve patient safety while making assessments more convenient and efficient. It also highlights the value of integrating technology into routine clinical practice to enhance […]
County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT) is transforming staff education through innovative learning methods, including virtual reality (VR), gamification and immersive simulation experiences. Designed to make learning more engaging and memorable, these approaches help staff build confidence, develop skills and apply learning in realistic scenarios. By moving beyond traditional training methods, CDDFT is creating interactive experiences that support workforce development and ultimately improve patient care. The initiative demonstrates how technology and creativity can enhance learning, increase participation and help healthcare professionals retain knowledge more effectively. It also highlights the potential for innovative education techniques to support a skilled, adaptable and future-ready workforce. This inspiring example will be of […]
August 26, 2026
People living with serious mental illness often experience poorer physical health outcomes and face significant barriers to accessing the care and support they need. Addressing these inequalities requires innovative, person-centred approaches that bring together physical and mental health services to deliver more coordinated care. A new case study in the Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria (HI NENC) Innovation Library highlights an initiative focused on improving physical health outcomes for people with serious mental illness. The resource explores how services worked collaboratively to identify health needs, improve access to care, and support individuals to manage their overall wellbeing more effectively. The case study provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals, […]
August 25, 2026
A sustainability initiative from North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (NCIC) has received regional recognition at the NHS Excellence Awards. The reusable theatre hats project was introduced to reduce the use of disposable surgical caps in operating theatres, helping to cut waste, lower costs and support the NHS commitment to a greener future. The initiative demonstrates how simple, practical changes can make a significant difference to environmental sustainability while engaging staff in positive action. The project has been praised for its innovative approach and highlights how frontline teams can lead improvements that benefit both healthcare services and the environment. For organisations looking to reduce their environmental impact, this award-winning […]
The paediatric diabetes team at the University Hospital of North Tees and the University Hospital of Hartlepool has received the prestigious Investing in Children Membership Award after an independent evaluation involving children and young people aged 8 to 18 years who use the service. The evaluation found that young patients feel listened to, involved in decisions about their care and well supported by staff. Families praised the team’s personalised approach, clear communication and commitment to helping children manage their diabetes with confidence. Feedback from patients has directly shaped several service improvements, including monthly evening clinics, more flexible appointment options, telephone consultations, psychology support groups, parent support sessions, and enhanced assessments […]
Cumberland Council has been recognised for its work to improve access to affordable, healthy and sustainable food, receiving the Excellence Award in the Good Food Local Awards (North East and North Cumbria). The council was also ranked highest for leadership among the 13 participating authorities. Since joining the Good Food Local programme in 2024, Cumberland has increased its overall score from 67% to 86%, with its score for tackling food poverty rising from 58% to 79%. The award reflects strong partnership working between the council, local organisations and communities. Initiatives contributing to the achievement include increasing the number of affordable food hubs from 16 to 21, supporting 10 schools to […]
August 5, 2026
A pilot mobile healthcare service in Sunderland has improved access to primary care for people experiencing substance use disorders and homelessness. The Sunderland Health Bus, developed through a partnership between Sunderland City Council, Sunderland GP Alliance, ARC North East and North Cumbria (ARC NENC), and people with lived experience, brought healthcare directly into community settings across the city between April and October 2025. The service offered flexible, walk-in access to primary care, supported by clinicians and peer workers with lived experience of substance use or homelessness. Designed to reduce barriers such as stigma, digital exclusion and difficulty accessing traditional services, the bus aimed to reach people who often experience some […]
July 22, 2026
Dietitians at North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (NCIC) are helping to create a greener NHS through an innovative initiative that is reducing single-use plastics for families who rely on home enteral feeding. Marking Greener Allied Health Professionals Week earlier this year, we heard about how the project has brought together adult and paediatric dietitians, patients, carers and medical nutrition company Nutricia to reduce waste while maintaining safe and effective nutritional support. A key part of the initiative has been replacing single-use feeding containers with reusable Sterifeed bottles that can be used for up to a month. With support from dietitians, families have successfully made the switch, leading to […]
