People First Recognition Awards
Innovation
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Innovation
Our innovation award showcases staff who strive to achieve and who implement or embrace ideas or solutions that result in new or improved services or ways of working.
Dr Simon Paine and Mr Stuart Smith — Consultant Neuropathologist / Consultant Neurosurgeon
Simon and Stuart are collaborating across Divisions and with the University to introduce a ground-breaking new technology into the NHS for diagnosing brain tumours. They have overcome significant challenges, including financial constraints, by establishing a research study that demonstrated tumours could be diagnosed in just 1 hour and 20 minutes, rather than the typical 6+ weeks. They have broken an international record for the speed of brain tumour diagnosis, showcasing the potential of innovative solutions in healthcare.
Aidan O'Brien — Consultant Clinical Engineer
As part of the neonatal redesign programme, Aidan was instrumental in creating a new transport incubator to support the safe transfer of babies from one place to another. Listening to concerns and adapting plans as needed, he had the innovative idea to use their existing ventilator and worked closely with both the manufacturer of the incubator trolley and ventilator to insure this met the needs of the nursing team. Overall, the innovative transport system significantly benefitted both staff and families during stressful transfers.
Megan Wakley — Midwife
Megan has led a project aimed at reducing postpartum hemorrhages (PPH) in the labour suite, utilising improvement science to enhance evidence-based practices. Her commitment to innovation is evident as she plans to expand her project into medicine management for PPH, aiming to benefit both hospital and home birth settings.
Theatres and Anaesthesia Directorate
The Theatres and Anaesthesia Directorate has successfully developed and implemented the UK's first Robotic Surgery Strategy, positioning NUH as a leader in healthcare innovation. This strategy addresses challenges like flow optimisation and cultural change, significantly improving surgical outcomes and staff satisfaction. Overall, the strategy has transformed patient care and service delivery.
Wider Workforce Team
As part of their initiatives, the Wider Workforce Team has seen a remarkable 400% increase in job applications from 2023 to 2024, with a notable rise in applications from BME candidates. This growth in both quantity and diversity of applicants is attributed to the team's enhanced support for prospective candidates and improved inclusion measures. Their innovative efforts have raised awareness of available opportunities across the Trust, ensuring effective appointments for high-quality patient care.