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 […]

A new national opportunity is inviting health, care and community partners to work together to improve cancer care for people across the UK. Macmillan Cancer Support, in partnership with Q, hosted by the NHS Alliance, has launched the Macmillan Q Lab, an innovation programme focused on one important question: “How might we reimagine holistic cancer care closer to people’s homes?” Over a nine-month period, participants will take part in workshops, peer learning, coaching and a structured design process to develop innovative solutions that could make cancer care more accessible, equitable and community-focused. Teams will also have access to expertise from Macmillan and Q, alongside funding support of up to £75,000 […]

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 […]

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 […]

For the first time, the North East and Yorkshire Leadership Academy (NEYLA) will be delivering regional cohorts of the prestigious Rosalind Franklin Programme, bringing this nationally recognised leadership development opportunity closer to home. Designed for colleagues in mid to senior leadership roles, the nine-month programme supports leaders to develop the skills, confidence and capability to lead across organisations, systems and partnerships. Regional cohorts will launch from Winter 2026, with significantly reduced costs for delegates from NELA Partnership organisations. If you’re ready to take the next step in your leadership journey, now is the ideal time to discuss the programme with your line manager and register your interest. To find out […]

A new NHS Leadership and Management Framework has been launched by the NHS College of Leadership and Management alongside new NHS Staff Standards, including the first national staff standard for line management. For the first time, the NHS has a single national framework that clearly defines what excellent leadership and management look like across all professions and career stages. Applicable to both clinical and non-clinical roles, the framework introduces a new Leadership and Management Code and a consistent set of standards designed to support leaders and managers at every level. The launch also marks an important milestone for the newly established NHS College of Leadership and Management, which will act […]

Health and care colleagues across the North East and Yorkshire can now access a range of leadership development opportunities designed to support leaders at every stage of their career.   Rosalind Franklin Programme coming to the North East and Yorkshire For the first time, the North East and Yorkshire Leadership Academy (NEYLA) will deliver regional cohorts of the prestigious Rosalind Franklin Programme, bringing this nationally recognised leadership development opportunity closer to home. Aimed at colleagues in mid to senior leadership roles, the nine-month programme helps leaders build the confidence, skills and capability needed to lead across organisations, systems and partnerships. Regional cohorts will launch from winter 2026, with significantly reduced […]

This Connect & Learn session on 1 July 2026 saw colleagues from across the North East and North Cumbria come together to explore ‘Leading system-level change – what next for our community?’. Our Connect & Learns are a series of online learning events, planned with the purpose of sharing and spreading improvement work across the North East and North Cumbria health and care system. A new report from the Northern Triangle explores the real-world challenge of leading change across health and care systems – where solutions lie beyond the control of any single organisation. Rather than offering a simple framework, the research provides a powerful reflection of the lived experience […]

Applications are now open for the Mary Seacole Local Programme (MSLP), a leadership development opportunity for first-time and emerging leaders across North East and North Cumbria. Designed to support people at the early stages of their leadership journey, this six-month programme offers a flexible and supportive environment to build confidence, develop core leadership skills, and reflect on your own approach in practice.   What to expect Delivered through the NHS Leadership Academy’s virtual campus, the programme blends self-directed learning with interactive workshops. Participants will: Explore their leadership style and values Build confidence in leading others and managing challenges Learn alongside peers from across the region Apply learning directly within their […]