Health Innovation North West Coast and three partner health innovation networks have joined the Northern Health Science Alliance (NHSA) as a collective member.
The move will reinforce the networks’ role at the forefront of regional health innovation, and will bring together research excellence, healthcare delivery and innovation adoption expertise under a shared ambition to improve health and reduce inequalities.
The NHSA, a pan-northern partnership, convenes leading universities and NHS organisations recognised for their excellence and impact in health and life sciences. The alliance works with its members, industry and government to harness the North’s strengths, connecting expertise, cultivating networks and championing a single, influential voice for the regions.
Health innovation networks are funded by NHS England and the Office for Life Sciences to support the adoption and spread of innovation in their regions, improving patient outcomes and contributing to economic growth.
The three other northern HINs joining as a single alliance member are:
- Health Innovation Manchester
- Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria and
- Health Innovation Yorkshire and Humber
Dr Phil Jennings, Chief Executive of Health Innovation North West Coast, said: “Our regions have a proud history of translating research into practice, working with communities, NHS partners and local systems to embed innovation where it is needed most.
“Joining the NHSA allows us to take that work further, connecting our expertise into a powerful pan-northern network focused on equitable access to innovation. Through this partnership, we can ensure that innovation reaches every community, driving improvements in health outcomes while supporting inclusive economic growth across the North.”
Richard Stubbs, Chief Executive of Health Innovation Yorkshire and Humber, has also joined the NHSA’s Board. Richard has a track record of bringing together sectors and regions to accelerate the role that technology and life sciences can play in improving patient care.
As members of the NHSA, the HINs will contribute to pan-northern programmes and expert networks, working alongside universities, NHS organisations and partners to support innovation, attract investment and amplify the North’s voice in national policy and research agendas.
Hannah Davies, CEO of the Northern Health Science Alliance said: “We are delighted to welcome the four Health Innovation Networks from across the North of England into the NHSA. Their expertise in accelerating the adoption and spread of innovation is vital to ensuring that the North’s world-leading research delivers tangible benefits for patients and communities.
“By bringing together our collective strengths, we can go further and faster in tackling health inequalities, improving outcomes and driving sustainable economic growth across the region.
“I’d also like to extend a warm welcome to Richard Stubbs as our newest Board member – we look forward to working with Richard and utilising his vast knowledge and experience to help further opportunities for our members.”
Richard Stubbs, Chief Executive of Health Innovation Yorkshire and Humber, said: “The health innovation networks play a critical role in connecting partners across the health and care system to bring innovation into everyday practice. Joining the NHSA reflects a shared commitment to collaboration across the North, aligning research, innovation and delivery to maximise impact.
“Together, we can ensure that the best ideas are not only developed but spread more widely, improving care for more patients while supporting the growth of a thriving life sciences ecosystem.”
Ben Bridgewater, Chief Executive, Health Innovation Manchester, said: “Greater Manchester has a strong record of bringing together research, industry and frontline services to deliver real-world impact at scale. Joining the NHSA as a collective strengthens our ability to connect that work across the North - accelerating innovation adoption and ensuring more people benefit from the region’s cutting-edge discoveries.”
Dr Nicola Hutchinson, Chief Executive Officer, Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria, said: “The North East and North Cumbria is home to expertise in delivering innovation across complex and diverse communities, from rural areas to coastal towns. Through the NHSA, we can ensure those insights are shared more widely across the North, helping to address longstanding health inequalities and improve outcomes at scale.”
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