Two projects supported by the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration North East and North Cumbria (ARC NENC) have been featured in the NIHR Annual Report 2025/26. SmartSocks: supporting earlier dementia detection The SmartSocks pilot is testing whether sensor-enabled socks can monitor sleep and walking patterns at home, helping to identify early signs of Alzheimer’s disease in adults with Down syndrome. Exploring drone: delivered defibrillators A second project examined public responses to defibrillators delivered by drone during simulated cardiac arrests. Participants supported the idea, while highlighting the need for clear guidance, confidence using the equipment and continued CPR support from ambulance call handlers. Research making a difference Both projects show how regional […]
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 […]
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 […]
For nearly 50 years, the HSJ Awards have provided a national platform to recognise the most impactful projects, best practice initiatives, and innovations shaping the future of NHS care. They are widely regarded as one of the most respected awards programmes in UK healthcare, celebrating excellence across the health and care system. Entries for the HSJ Awards 2026 are now open, offering teams the opportunity to benchmark their work, share learning, and gain national recognition for the difference they are making. Why enter the HSJ Awards? Entering the HSJ Awards provides an opportunity to: Showcase achievements on a national stage Share learning and best practice with peers across the […]
For sixteen years, colleagues across the North East and North Cumbria have worked together through the Learning Disability and Autism Network to improve services, challenge inequalities and strengthen the voice of people with lived experience. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this work over the years and helped make a difference for people and families across our region. That collective effort has made a difference. Through partnership between the NHS, local authorities, providers and the voluntary and community sector, the network has helped drive improvements in access to care, experience of services and outcomes for people with a learning disability and autistic people across the region. As this […]
An innovative NHS‑led Student Academy at the University Hospital of Hartlepool is strengthening physiotherapy education through practical, supported learning in real clinical settings. Led by the integrated musculoskeletal (iMSK) physiotherapy team, the programme creates a safe environment for students to apply theory to practice, build confidence and develop clinical judgement early in their careers. Since launching in August 2024, 76 physiotherapy students have taken part across 13 cohorts. Students run supervised clinics for non‑complex cases, gaining valuable one‑to‑one patient experience while being supported by experienced chartered physiotherapists. Feedback highlights the benefits of increased autonomy, reflective learning and feeling embedded as part of a multidisciplinary team. The programme has continued to […]
Brought to you by Boost in collaboration with North Cumbria Knowledge and Library Service, this LUNCH & LEARN session on 3 March 2026 saw Paul Court (Chief Executive of Healthworks) deliver a presentation on ‘Healthworks: Driving impact and reducing health inequalities’. Following a 30th Anniversary Impact Event, Paul joined us to share the work and impact of Healthworks. We heard how targeted, community‑based programmes are delivering an estimated £46.2 million in savings to health and social care services, easing pressure on overstretched systems and aligning with NHS Long‑Term Plan priorities to tackle health inequalities, improve population health, and strengthen out‑of‑hospital care. Insights from the Impact Report 2024-2025 were spotlighted, featuring […]
The NHS Excellence Awards 2026 are open for submissions until 5pm on Friday 6 March 2026. These national awards celebrate innovative work improving health and care across England – shining a light on projects that deliver real impact and reflect the ambitions of the 10 Year Health Plan. Run by the NHS, for the NHS, the awards are free to enter, and finalists will receive free tickets to the ceremony. Who can enter? Eligible organisations include: NHS ICBs and NHS trusts Primary care providers Local authorities VCSE organisations Other partners delivering local health and care National bodies (for locally delivered work, or local leaders for the Leadership Award) […]
