The COLLABORATE 2014 signature event was hosted by Abertawe Bro Morgannwg and Hywel Dda University Health Boards, academia and industry to promote and celebrate collaborations in the sectors. It was delivered by the NISCHR Academic Health Science Collaboration (AHSC) South West Wales Regional Hub and the College of Medicine at Swansea University.

Dr Keir Lewis, Chair of NISCHR Academic Health Science Collaboration South West Wales Regional Hub, spoke at the event.  He commented: “Collaborate 2014 was a fabulous opportunity to bring together the NHS, academia, industry and the third sector to boost research, education and health services to improve the health and wellbeing of the people of south west Wales and the economy.”

The morning was filled with plenary sessions with an impressive line-up of speakers including Professor Jonathan Bisson, Head of NISCHR, who said: “It was a pleasure to speak at Collaborate 2014 today.  I’m looking forward to working with colleagues to further develop Wales’ research and innovation network and capability”.

Over 250 delegates attended the conference on Tuesday, 21 October for what was an inspiring programme of guest speakers, interactive workshops and tours of the College facilities.

The day was chaired by Professor Marc Clement from the College of Medicine who commented: “The Collaborate 2014 event brought together over 200 researchers, clinicians and business people from across South West Wales and beyond to celebrate existing and develop new collaborations within the Life Sciences and Health sectors.

“Focused upon the work within the universities, health boards and other key organisations which form the NISCHR South West Wales Academic Health Science Collaboration, the event included plenary presentations from NISCHR Chief Executive Prof. Jon Bisson and Director of HPC Systems at Fujitsu, Joe Duran.

“Six workshop sessions examined issues ranging from innovation and procurement in the NHS through to disruptive technology opportunities for SMEs. In addition, over 20 exhibitors from companies ranging from product design such as GX to the Regional Learning Partnership and Health Research Wales, presented to delegates in the College of Medicine ILS buildings.”