Medilink Midlands

IN-PERSON: WMHTC - North Star Workshop 1 - Insight & Evidence
2026-02-25 12:30 - 15:30 (Europe/London) | Salts Healthcare, Unit 1, Richard St, Aston, B7 4AA
This activity aims to bring together triple helix partners (industry, academia, and government) to collaboratively establish the West Midlands Health Technologies Cluster (WMHTC) North Star and Action Plan – its Vision, Mission, and Action Lines.
This work will help build a new partnership-based strategy for the cluster, strengthen collaboration, and align stakeholders behind a shared purpose.

Workshop 1 of 3: Insight & Evidence Session
Rather than critiquing the current Vision/Mission (which may dilute engagement), this session will:

Present an evidence base drawing on known exemplars, existing WMHTC materials, and mapped ecosystem insights.

Enable participants to identify the implications of this evidence for WMHTC’s future direction.

Surface strategic opportunities, challenges, and areas of shared importance.

Purpose: Build a common understanding and create momentum for genuine cocreation.

If you are a senior leader or decision maker working within industry, government or academia, and would like to attend this event, please email: events@wmhtc.co.uk.
*Please note: Places are limited.

For information around workshop 2 click here.
For information around workshop 3 click here.

Each Workshop to be facilitated by Alison Partridge – Head of Inclusive Economy at Newable
Alison leads the design and delivery of programmes that create meaningful opportunities for local communities and support the development of fair, resilient, and innovative local economies.
She is an experienced and adaptable economic development professional with deep expertise in inclusive enterprise, entrepreneurship, and place‑based growth across UK and European cities. Over her 35+ year career, she has worked at the intersection of policy, partnerships, and programme delivery, co‑creating and securing funding for initiatives that respond to complex and evolving socio‑economic contexts.
Alison has played a prominent role within Europe’s Cities Knowledge Exchange and Learning Programmes, leading multiple networks of EU cities committed to building inclusive, knowledge‑based economies. Her work has centred on enabling knowledge exchange, strengthening collaboration, and supporting stakeholders to co‑create local action plans.
In 2016, Alison co‑founded OneTech, a catalyst for inclusion in the startup ecosystem, which equips underserved communities with the networks, skills, and confidence to start and grow businesses. Between 2023 and 2025, she co‑led London’s Inclusive Health & Life Sciences Coalition, bringing together eight central London local authorities and MedCity to broaden access, investment, and opportunities across the sector. From 2024 to 2026, she also supported Tech SY stakeholders to co‑create an ambitious action plan to expand the region’s tech entrepreneurship ecosystem.

To find out more on the WMHTC click here

IN-PERSON: WMHTC - North Star Workshop 2 - Co-Creation of Vision & Mission
2026-03-12 12:30 - 15:30 | Park Regis, 160 Broad Street, Five ways, Birmingham, B15 1DT, United Kingdom
This activity aims to bring together triple helix partners (industry, academia, and government) to collaboratively establish the West Midlands Health Technologies Cluster (WMHTC) North Star and Action Plan – its Vision, Mission, and Action Lines.
This work will help build a new partnership-based strategy for the cluster, strengthen collaboration, and align stakeholders behind a shared purpose.

During workshop 2, Participants will:

Codevelop the core thrust of the Vision (direction, ambition, long-termterm aspiration).
Shape the underpinning Mission (purpose, focus, and role of the cluster).
Work within clear guiderails, ensuring discussion remains strategic and aligned to cluster goals.

If you are a senior leader or decision maker working within industry, government or academia, and would like to attend this event, please email: events@wmhtc.co.uk.
*Please note: Places are limited.

For information around workshop 1 click here.
For information around workshop 3 click here.

Each Workshop to be facilitated by Alison Partridge – Head of Inclusive Economy at Newable
Alison leads the design and delivery of programmes that create meaningful opportunities for local communities and support the development of fair, resilient, and innovative local economies.
She is an experienced and adaptable economic development professional with deep expertise in inclusive enterprise, entrepreneurship, and place‑based growth across UK and European cities. Over her 35+ year career, she has worked at the intersection of policy, partnerships, and programme delivery, co‑creating and securing funding for initiatives that respond to complex and evolving socio‑economic contexts.
Alison has played a prominent role within Europe’s Cities Knowledge Exchange and Learning Programmes, leading multiple networks of EU cities committed to building inclusive, knowledge‑based economies. Her work has centred on enabling knowledge exchange, strengthening collaboration, and supporting stakeholders to co‑create local action plans.
In 2016, Alison co‑founded OneTech, a catalyst for inclusion in the startup ecosystem, which equips underserved communities with the networks, skills, and confidence to start and grow businesses. Between 2023 and 2025, she co‑led London’s Inclusive Health & Life Sciences Coalition, bringing together eight central London local authorities and MedCity to broaden access, investment, and opportunities across the sector. From 2024 to 2026, she also supported Tech SY stakeholders to co‑create an ambitious action plan to expand the region’s tech entrepreneurship ecosystem.

To find out more on the WMHTC click here

IN-PERSON: WMHTC - North Star Workshop 3 - Action Lines & Delivery Model
2026-03-17 12:30 - 15:30 | PHTA, No1 BHIC, 2 Bournebrook Way, Birmingham, B29 6TH, United Kingdom
This activity aims to bring together triple helix partners (industry, academia, and government) to collaboratively establish the West Midlands Health Technologies Cluster (WMHTC) North Star and Action Plan – its Vision, Mission, and Action Lines.
This work will help build a new partnership-based strategy for the cluster, strengthen collaboration, and align stakeholders behind a shared purpose.

During Workshop 3, participants will:

Develop practical, measurable action lines to achieve the vision and mission.

Explore partnership-based delivery models and governance structures.

Prioritise initiatives that strengthen collaboration and impact.

If you are a senior leader or decision maker working within industry, government or academia, and would like to attend this event, please email: events@wmhtc.co.uk.
*Please note: Places are limited.

For information around workshop 1 click here.
For information around workshop 2 click here.

Each Workshop to be facilitated by Alison Partridge – Head of Inclusive Economy at Newable
Alison leads the design and delivery of programmes that create meaningful opportunities for local communities and support the development of fair, resilient, and innovative local economies.
She is an experienced and adaptable economic development professional with deep expertise in inclusive enterprise, entrepreneurship, and place‑based growth across UK and European cities. Over her 35+ year career, she has worked at the intersection of policy, partnerships, and programme delivery, co‑creating and securing funding for initiatives that respond to complex and evolving socio‑economic contexts.
Alison has played a prominent role within Europe’s Cities Knowledge Exchange and Learning Programmes, leading multiple networks of EU cities committed to building inclusive, knowledge‑based economies. Her work has centred on enabling knowledge exchange, strengthening collaboration, and supporting stakeholders to co‑create local action plans.
In 2016, Alison co‑founded OneTech, a catalyst for inclusion in the startup ecosystem, which equips underserved communities with the networks, skills, and confidence to start and grow businesses. Between 2023 and 2025, she co‑led London’s Inclusive Health & Life Sciences Coalition, bringing together eight central London local authorities and MedCity to broaden access, investment, and opportunities across the sector. From 2024 to 2026, she also supported Tech SY stakeholders to co‑create an ambitious action plan to expand the region’s tech entrepreneurship ecosystem.

To find out more on the WMHTC click here.

ONLINE EVENT: MeTAP - Technical HIVE
2026-03-18 13:00 - 15:30 | Online via GoToWebinar
The MeTAP Technical Hive is a structured, expert-led growth intervention delivered as part of MeTAP 2.0, a UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) supported business growth programme.
Designed to provide Nottingham City–based innovators with focused access to high-level subject matter experts across regulatory, IP, clinical validation, manufacturing, commercialisation, legal, and funding domains.
Technical Hive is not a general workshop. It is a diagnostic-led, pre-mapped, 1:1 expert clinic designed to accelerate company progression at critical stages of growth.
The intervention will be delivered online and structured around:

Pre-event diagnostic assessment

Strategic mapping to relevant delivery partners

Structured 1:1 breakout consultations.

Consolidated written recommendations post-event

Aimed to accelerate company progression, de-risk key strategic decisions, and deliver measurable growth outputs in line with UKSPF programme objectives.
Agenda
1pm Welcome/ Introduction
1:10pm Pitching sessions
1:50pm Breakout sessions
3:20pm Closing session
3:30pm Online event ends
Eligibility & AttendanceEligibility checks are required prior to attendance. All attendees must register their interest to join the MeTAP Technical Hive by emailing raghul@medilinkmidlands.com. Access details will be provided following eligibility checks.
Invitation only – open to Life Sciences and MedTech organisations based in Nottingham City.
This programme is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

IN-PERSON EVENT: Perspectives on Preventative Innovations in Healthcare
2026-03-24 10:00 - 13:00 | St Johns Innovation Centre, Cowley Road, Cambridge, CB4 0WS, United Kingdom
Insight 3: Perspectives on Preventative Innovations in Healthcare
Arise Innovation hubs are delighted to be collaborating with Medilink Midlands and Innovate UK in a series of events for autumn and winter 2025/26. The final of these looks at an overarching theme in the NHS’s current 10-year plan, around how prevention is better than cure.
The third of the pillars in the NHS 10-year plan is ‘from sickness to prevention’, with a focus on reaching patients earlier to prevent illness, where-ever possible. To achieve this, we need to look across key areas including health surveillance, genomic science, standardised data collection and thoughtful deployment of digital and AI technologies. Reshaping the ways we innovate to make every one of us proactive citizens.
Challenges we will address in this session include:
-What needs to change to improve the focus on prevention?
-How do we use health surveillance data to inform and accelerate new preventative health programmes?
-How do we move to a data-driven and personalised approach throughout our lives?
Agenda
10:00 – 10:30: Arrival, networking and refreshments
10:30 – 10:40: Introduction and Welcome by Arise and Innovate UK
Dr Beverley Vaughan| Director | Arise Innovation Hubs
Stephen Goddard | Job Title | Innovate UK
10:40 – 10:45: Welcome by Medilink Midlands
Raghul Senthilnathan | Innovation Advisor | Medilink Midlands
10:45-11:00 Setting the scene I – What does the future look like, in an ecosystem of health promotion and protection UK Health Security Agency
Nadia Shivji Brown | Senior BDM | UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA)
Dr Jörg Hoffmann | Regional Deputy Director, East of England | UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA)
11:00 – 11:15: Setting the scene II – From Body Mass Index to Body Volume Index
Richard Barnes | CEO | Select Research
11:15 – 11:25: Q&A
11:25 –11:40: Coffee & Networking Break
11.40 -12.00: Lightening Pitches
Imran Haq | Managing Director | The Sample Network
Hasan Avcu| Co-Founder & Managing Director | Tesu Health
Dr. Shaobin Wu | Co – Founder | C-Prio Ltd
12.00-12.20: Support available to Innovators
Dr. Anne Blackwood | Chief Executive | Health Tech Enterprise
Stephen Goddard | Senior Innovation and Growth Specialist | Innovate UK
12:20 – 12:30: Q&A
12.30-13.00: Networking lunch

A POLITE REMINDER REGARDING EVENT ATTENDANCE
We’re seeing an increase in late cancellations and no‑shows at programme events. While we understand that plans change or unexpected circumstances arise, not informing us in advance has a real impact.
When participants do not cancel their ticket or send apologies, it results in unused catering, wasted resources, and limits our ability to plan effectively and offer places to others who wish to attend.
Please be considerate: If you are no longer able to attend an event, let us know as soon as possible, or cancel your ticket via Event Brite, or email events@medilinkmidlands.com, so the space can be reallocated.
Additionally, the presentation slides will only be shared with those who attended the event.
Thank you for your understanding and professionalism.
Speaker Profiles

Event Chair: Dr Beverley Vaughan | Arise Innovation Hubs Director | ARU
Beverley is a scientist by training, having worked in academia, start-up and business sectors, including Cambridge University Teaching hospitals, Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst (SBC), Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult and University of Oxford. Currently, Director at Arise Innovation hubs, part of Anglia Ruskin University, small but beautifully formed and importantly close but not within the golden triangle powerhouses. Beverley has been building a pipeline and success stories in the local environment has involved using knowledge of other clusters and adaptation to a different ecosystem. Collaborating with our community to harness the skills and talent in ARU to support them, on a bespoke and case by case basis. Proud to have delivered programmes such as ABOVE and learnt how being small can make you nimble but success relies on powerful and strategic partnership.

Raghul Senthilnathan | Innovation Advisor | Medilink Midlands
A dynamic Innovation Advisor with a master’s degree in Biotech and Pharma Management from UCL, and a strong background in life sciences and healthcare innovation. Founder of two innovative start-ups, with personal expertise in digital technologies. Skilled in leading accelerator programs and supporting early-stage companies to navigate challenges and realize their potential in contributing to the economy. Expertise in coaching, mentoring, and business diagnostics to help innovators avoid pitfalls and succeed.

Richard Barns | CEO | Select Research
Richard Barnes is CEO of Select Research, based in Malvern, Worcs. Select have been pioneers in human body measurement in 3D for nearly 30 years. Select developed the sizing standards for clothing retailers using their 3D technology, and since 2004 have developed the Body Volume Index (BVI) and other metrics measured digitally, from a smartphone. The Body Mass Index (BMI) was invented in 1835. BVI was designed to be a better, and modern alternative, and has now been validated by Mayo Clinic as being a significant improvement on BMI for the prediction of metabolic risk.

Hasan Avcu | Managing Directors | Tesu Health
Hasan is a physician and health technology entrepreneur, and Co-Founder and Managing Director of Tesu Health, a Cambridge-based company developing evidence-based digital tools for chronic disease prevention. His work focuses on the behavioural management of cardiometabolic risk, with an emphasis on scalable interventions that support personalised prevention. Hasan has a background in clinical practice as well as medical and regulatory affairs within the pharmaceutical industry.

Stephen Goddard | Senior Innovation and Growth Specialist | Innovate UK
Stephen Goddard is an experienced business development, sales, and marketing professional with deep sector knowledge across:

Accounting (PwC, KPMG, HW Fisher)
Banking (Lloyds, Clydesdale)
Legal (Ashton Legal, Attwaters Jameson Hill, Woodfines)

Stephen also brings hands-on experience from running his own consultancy and working as a business advisor in the region.

Imran Haq | Managing Director | The Sample Network
Imran’s experience spans top tier universities (University of Cambridge, UCL), large pharma (AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline), founding successful companies (Cellomatics, Ignite Life Sciences, The Sample Network), government funded entities (Medicines Discovery Catapult), and non-profits (Pistoia Alliance).
As Managing Director of The Sample Network, Imran is tackling barriers in relation to clinical collection. Inability to access samples rapidly, delays biomarker and diagnostic development.
The Sample Network resolves this via access to proven sites that can rapidly start studies, in defined timeframes, and with complex study design. The company has been growing 300% YoY and can now count upon a global client base.

Dr. Anne Blackwood | Chief Executive | Health Tech Enterprise
Dr. Anne Blackwood is a prominent leader in the UK’s health innovation ecosystem, currently serving as the Chief Executive of Health Tech Enterprise (HTE). With over 20 years of experience in technology transfer and intellectual property management, she has dedicated her career to bridging the gap between clinical research, academia, and the commercial market. Prior to leading HTE, Anne spent several years at Cambridge Enterprise, the technology transfer office for the University of Cambridge, where she honed her skills in IP management and spin-out formation. She holds a PhD in Chemistry, providing her with a rigorous scientific foundation that informs her commercial decision-making. Beyond her role at HTE, she is an active voice in the medtech community, often contributing to regional innovation boards and national committees aimed at improving patient care through technological advancement.

Dr Jörg Hoffmann | Regional Deputy Director, East of England |UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA)
Jörg is a specialist in Public Health and a medical doctor and is the Regional Deputy Director leading UKHSA in the East of England. Previously he worked as Deputy Director for Health Protection in Public Health England. Before that he held consultant posts in Public Health Wales and the Health Protection Agency. He trained in Public Health in the East Midlands and worked as a technical Officer for the European Region of the World Health Organisation in Copenhagen, Denmark. Before embarking on a public health career in 2002, Jorg worked clinically in both Germany and the United Kingdom having trained originally in Ulm and Kiel Universities in Germany.

IN-PERSON: XR Hub - Health & Life Sciences Matchmaking for Innovation & Collaboration
2026-03-24 13:00 - 16:00 | STEAMHouse Birmingham, Belmont Row, Birmingham, B4 7RQ, United Kingdom
The XR Health, Care & Life Sciences Hub is hosting a structured matchmaking session designed to create practical collaborations between challenge owners, XR solution providers and enabling partners across healthcare, life sciences, manufacturing, training and related sectors.
This includes clinical applications, workforce development, simulation and training, advanced manufacturing, and other areas where immersive technologies can improve outcomes, efficiency or innovation in the health and life science sector.

Agenda
1pm Arrival & registration
1:30pm Welcome
1:45pm Challenge Showcase
2:15pm Matchmaking Session
4pm Depart

To find out more on the WMHTC click here.

IN-PERSON EVENT: Medilink Midlands Members Forum & Workshop
2026-03-25 10:00 - 13:00 | Shakespeare Martineau Solicitors, 35 Station Street, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG2 3DQ, United Kingdom
Date: Wednesday 25th March 2026
Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm
Location: Shakespeare Martineau Solicitors, 35 Station Street, Nottingham, NG2 3DQ
Join us for a relaxed and engaging morning hosted by Medilink Midlands, designed exclusively for our members. This is a great opportunity to connect with the Medilink Midlands team, hear updates on our latest activities.
The session will also include a focused workshop on Employee Mental Health and Wellbeing, delivered by Nathan Shearman. Nathan is a qualified psychotherapist and mental health trainer who integrates current psychotherapy and neuroscience research with innovative delivery methods, alongside the development of effective, high-impact training solutions. We’ll explore best practices, share useful resources, and open the floor for discussion.
Agenda Highlights:

Arrival Networking
Updates from Medilink Midlands
Member Q&A session
Employee Wellbeing & Mental Health Workshop

Agenda:
10:00am – Delegates Arrival/Refreshments
10:20am – Introduction from : Ed Wright | Partner | Shakespeare Martineau
10:30am – Welcome from : Laura Shakespeare | Membership Lead | Medilink Midlands

Intro & Welcome

Member updates

10:40am – MMIB & MTI Expo update : Lucy Alexander | Medilink Midlands
10:50am – Events update: Reena Mistry | Events Officer | Medilink Midlands
10:55am – Q&A – Your chance to ask the Medilink Midlands Team
11:15am – Networking Break
11:30am – Employee wellbeing & Mental Health Workshop: Nathan Shearman | Manging Director | Red Umbrella
1:00pm – Finish
Not a member yet? There’s still time to join and enjoy all the benefits of Medilink Midlands membership, including attending this session. Discover what you get and sign up here or email membership@medilinkmidlands.com.
Speakers

Nathan Shearman | Managing Director | Red Umbrella
“Nathan is a qualified psychotherapist and mental health trainer who integrates current psychotherapy and neuroscience research with innovative delivery methods, alongside the development of effective, high-impact training solutions. After ten years in retail management, the loss of someone close to suicide, alongside his own experiences of anxiety, Nathan now pursues a career in mental health, and is steadfastly committed to reducing stigma and improving access to support, with the emphasis on prevention as well as crisis intervention. Since joining Red Umbrella, he has trained over 2,000 people, designed 65 courses, and delivered training globally.”

Ed Wright | Partner | Shakespeare Martineau
Ed is a specialist commercial lawyer advising clients on a wide range of non-contentious contractual, IP, data protection and competition law issues.
He primarily advises on the creation, ownership, and exploitation of IP, including licensing, R&D/technology transfer and agency, distribution, reselling, and franchising arrangements. Ed also specialises in drafting and negotiating agreements governing IP licensing and the supply of goods and services. He works across all sectors, with particular expertise in healthcare and life sciences, sport, technology, and media and communications.
Ed is recognised as a ‘Leading Partner’ in the Legal 500 UK 2026, and as a ranked lawyer in the Chambers UK 2026

In-Person Event: Business Awards 2026
2026-04-23 18:30 - 23:30 | Empire Banqueting & Conference Hall, 1 Foundry Lane,, Leicester, LE1 3WU, United Kingdom
Innovation, Collaboration, and Excellence Celebrated at Medilink Midlands Business Awards 2026
The region’s most innovative and impactful healthtech and life sciences companies will be recognised at the Medilink Midlands Business Awards 2026, taking place at the Empire Banqueting Hall, Leicester on Thursday April 23rd 2026.
Organised by Medilink Midlands, the awards aim to bring together industry leaders, clinicians, academics, and investors to celebrate organisations driving innovation, improving patient outcomes, and delivering economic growth.
Applications are now open including a new nomination method.
For further information on categories and sponsorship opportunities, please click here.

Ticket Prices:

Individual ticket (standard non-member rate) = £185 +VAT
Individual ticket with member discount = £150 +VAT
Table rate (standard fee based on 10 people) = £1,700 +VAT
Table rate (based on 10 people) with member discount = £1,400 +VAT

Tickets/Tables: Medilink Member discounts are available, to receive the code email: events@medilinkmidlands.com
CLICK TO BOOK YOUR PLACES TO ATTEND

Introducing our host – Dr Michael Akadiri
Stand-up Comedian | Resident Doctor | Health Commentator
We’re thrilled to welcome Dr Michael Akadiri as our host for the Medilink Midlands Business Awards!
A multi award-winning comedian and NHS doctor, Michael blends medical insight with sharp, observational humour, making him the perfect host for a night celebrating innovation in healthcare and life sciences.
You may have seen him on Comedy Central, ITV2’s The Stand Up Sketch Show, or Channel 4’s Stand Up to Cancer, and heard him sharing expert health commentary on BBC Newsnight, LBC, and The Guardian.
From the wards to the world of comedy, Michael brings wit, warmth, and a doctor’s perspective on the lighter side of life in healthcare.

Entertainment announcement
Emily White | Award winning singer-songwriter
Emily brings a unique blend of jazz, soul, and timeless classics from the 70s through to today. We can’t wait for Emily to bring her rich sound and signature style to the Medilink Midlands Business Awards 2026, it’s set to be an unforgettable evening.
An award-winning singer-songwriter whose soulful vocals and jazz-inspired piano style have captivated audiences across the UK.
See more here.

Adding something truly special to the line-up, Totally Vocally will be bringing their incredible a cappella magic to the awards.
From NYC stages with Pentatonix to sold-out shows at Nottingham Playhouse with Gareth Malone, this Nottingham-based choir is known for soulful harmonies, funky grooves, and an infectious energy that will light up the room.

Medilink Midlands - BMet Learners Engagement Event
2026-06-18 16:00 - 18:00 | BMet College, 7 Jennens Road, Birmingham, B4 7PS, United Kingdom
Date: Thursday 18th June
Time: 4:00pm – 6:00pm
Venue: BMet College, 7 Jennens Road, Birmingham, B4 7PS
Building on the success of our Future Talent Laboratory (FTL) programme, and through the West Midlands Health Tech Cluster (WMHTC), we are working with partners across industry, the NHS, academia and the West Midlands Combined Authority to address one of the most pressing challenges facing the sector: developing a strong, sustainable and industry-aligned talent pipeline.
This work is already bringing together key voices from across the ecosystem, including members of the WMHTC Skills Forum and wider regional stakeholders.
This event will connect industry directly with learners and academic partners exploring careers in medtech, including the new HNC qualification.
We are looking to bring together a diverse group of organisations to:

Engage with learners through informal networking

Share insight into career pathways and roles within your organisation

Support future activity (e.g. mentoring, workshops or ongoing engagement)

We are aiming to involve 15–20 organisations to ensure strong representation across the sector.
Action: Please contact Lucy (lucya@medilinkmidlands.com) to confirm your attendance and any wider support.

Also taking place on 23rd June 2026 @ 9:30 am – 1:00 pm BST is the WMHTC – HR Action Learning Workshop:
This workshop brings together senior NHS and life sciences leaders to take a practical, peer-level look at shared workforce challenges that are increasingly difficult for any single organisation to address alone.
The focus is on real-world pressures across recruitment and retention of specialist talent, widening skills gaps across clinical, scientific, digital and leadership roles, early careers and pipeline development, and wider workforce resilience, wellbeing and productivity challenges.
Rather than a traditional discussion, this is a focused, structured working session designed to surface honest insight from across sectors. Participants will explore what is driving these challenges in practice, share what is working (and what is not), and identify where greater alignment or collaboration could realistically improve outcomes.
The aim is to move beyond discussion and towards practical, experience-led insight that can inform both organisational approaches and wider system thinking.
See more information here: IN-PERSON: WMHTC – HR Action Learning Workshop – Medilink Midlands

IN-PERSON: WMHTC - HR Action Learning Workshop
2026-06-23 09:30 - 13:00 | PHTA, No1 BHIC, 2 Bournebrook Way, Birmingham, B29 6TH, United Kingdom
Developing a strong, sustainable workforce remains one of the most significant challenges facing the medtech and life sciences sectors, both regionally and nationally.
Recent UK Government announcements introducing new higher technical qualifications highlight the scale of this challenge and the need to strengthen the pipeline of work-ready talent to support NHS productivity, healthcare innovation and future sector growth.
Across the West Midlands, employers and healthcare organisations continue to face ongoing pressures around recruitment and retention, widening skills gaps, early careers pathways and workforce resilience. Addressing these issues will require closer collaboration across the NHS, industry and education, and more effective approaches to developing and sustaining specialist talent.

HR Action Learning Workshop
This workshop brings together senior NHS and life sciences leaders to take a practical, peer-level look at shared workforce challenges that are increasingly difficult for any single organisation to address alone.
The focus is on real-world pressures across recruitment and retention of specialist talent, widening skills gaps across clinical, scientific, digital and leadership roles, early careers and pipeline development, and wider workforce resilience, wellbeing and productivity challenges.
Rather than a traditional discussion, this is a focused, structured working session designed to surface honest insight from across sectors. Participants will explore what is driving these challenges in practice, share what is working (and what is not), and identify where greater alignment or collaboration could realistically improve outcomes.
The aim is to move beyond discussion and towards practical, experience-led insight that can inform both organisational approaches and wider system thinking.
Who should attend?
This session is intended for senior leaders with direct workforce accountability, including:

HR Directors and Chief People Officers
Heads of Talent, Workforce or Organisational Development
Senior operational or executive leaders responsible for workforce planning

Participants will be drawn from large life science and health technology organisations, NHS Trusts, and system-level organisations.
Places are limited to support a focused, peer-level discussion.
How to secure a place
To register interest in attending, please email: events@wmhtc.co.uk
Workshop Facilitator
Helen Dinsdale, HR Transformation Leader | Facilitator | People & Culture Specialist

With over 20 years of experience across all areas of HR, Helen is a skilled facilitator and leader of people-focused transformation. She specialises in guiding organisations through change, creating clarity, and bringing people along to deliver meaningful, lasting outcomes.
Known for her pragmatic and outcome-driven approach, Helen excels at simplifying complex HR and business challenges, enabling teams to move forward with confidence. Her ability to build trusted relationships and foster a supportive, non-threatening environment helps individuals and organisations navigate change effectively. As part of an outsourced HR team, Helen works as a true extension of her clients’ businesses—offering hands-on, flexible support that goes beyond advice to deliver real results.

To find out more on the WMHTC click here.

Leicestershire Innovation Clinics 2026
2026-06-25 12:00 - 16:30 | Charnwood Campus Loughborough, LE11 5RB, Charnwood Campus Loughborough, Loughborough, LE11 5RB, United Kingdom
Date: Thursday 25 June 2026

Venue: Charnwood Campus, Bakewell Road, Loughborough, LE11 5RB
A partnership between Medilink Midlands, The Institute for Precision Health – University of Leicester and Charnwood Campus Science Innovation and Technology Park offers expertise support to individuals or companies already in, or transitioning into, the life sciences, medtech, health tech sector within the locality of Leicester and Leicestershire.
We are delighted to be able to feed into the new Leicestershire Academic Health Partners Health Innovation Hub, which will widen our ability to provide clinical insight into the value and delivery of new innovations.
First launched in October 2022, the Innovation Clinic programme successfully provided innovators access to expertise across the University, NHS and business innovation support network, to supply a clear pathway on how to grow and develop their innovations
To continue supporting pioneering innovation ideas across the region, a new series of clinic sessions has been launched.
Hosting these sector-specific workshops collaboratively, enables innovators to benefit from confidential discussions regarding the development of new products, from advice on funding and product development all the way through to engaging with the NHS, without having to engage with each organisation separately.
Expertise will include:
Academic, clinical, IP, regulatory, clinical adoption, innovation test beds, signposting and sectoral networking opportunities.
Who should apply?

Are you a student, health professional or company, developing new products or services?
Do you need insight on how to develop your research idea into a tangible product?
Looking to understand how to approach the NHS?
Want to know what funding is available?
Need guidance on PPI, value proposition, and/or cost/benefit analysis?
Looking to increase your competitive advantage?

Booking information:
If you would like to discuss your innovation project, new product development or understand the landscape, please complete this short online application form here.
These workshops have proved extremely popular, so early booking is recommended.
Deadline for the Leicestershire Innovation Clinics is Thursday 28th May.
Note: Applications will be kept open until further notice as there will be ongoing support mechanisms.
Please note individuals/companies can only attend one innovation clinic session throughout the series. This programme is supported by the Leicestershire Academic Health Partners Health Innovation Hub, consisting of:

Health Innovation East Midlands
Leicestershire Academic Health Partners
University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust
Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust
Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Integrated Care Board
University of Leicester

Funded through the University of Leicester’s Medical Research Council Impact Accelerator Account.

IN-PERSON: Medilinks - Meet The Neighbour
2026-07-07 12:00 - 16:00 | Wildes INNS, Worksop Road, Clowne, Chesterfield, S43 4TD, United Kingdom
Date: Tuesday 7 July 2026
Time: 12:00pm – 4:00pm
Venue: Wildes Inns, Worksop Road, Clowne, Chesterfield, S43 4TD

Something a little different is happening this July…
We’re bringing Medilink Midlands and Medilink North together for the very first time for a brand-new ‘Meet The Neighbour’ networking event.
Taking place on Tuesday 7 July at Wildes Inns, Chesterfield, this event creates a unique opportunity to connect across regional boundaries and bring new businesses, ideas, and conversations into one room.
The focus is simple: high-quality networking between organisations across MedTech and Life Sciences, in a relaxed setting that supports genuine discussion and new connections.
What to expect:

An afternoon of structured networking
A two-course summer buffet
New connections across the Midlands and the North
A relaxed, informal environment designed for conversation and collaboration

Whether you’re looking to develop partnerships, meet new contacts, or broaden your regional network, this is an opportunity to connect beyond your usual reach.
Guest speakers will be announced shortly.
Why attend?
Because the most valuable opportunities often come from connections you wouldn’t normally make within your immediate network.
Agenda
12:00 – 12:45 | Arrival & welcome refreshments and networking
12:45 – 13:00 | Welcome & opening remarks Medilink Midlands & Medilink North
13:00 – 13:15 | Welcome from Browne Jacobson

Vicky Tomlinson | Partner
Gerard Hanratty | Head of Health and Life Sciences

13:15– 13:25 | Guest Speaker 1
13:25 – 14:25 | Informal networking & two course summer buffet
14:25 – 14:35 | Guest Speaker 2
14:35 – 15:50 | Discussion networking & interactive activities
15:50– 16:00 | Closing remarks

Ticket Prices:
Members: £20.00 + vat
Non Members: £30.00 + vat
Please email: events@medilinkmidlands.com for your exclusive member discount code.

Accommodation
If you would like to stay overnight, Wildes Inns are able to offer a discounted rate of £99.00 for a single occupancy room, including breakfast.
To access this rate, you will need to book directly with Wildes Inns, either by phone or email – please reference Sam Otter – “Meet the Neighbour”
T +44(0)1246 387 386
E corporate@wildesinns.co.uk
Book your place here to be part of this first-ever cross-regional Meet The Neighbour event.

We look forward to welcoming you for an afternoon of great conversation, connections, and summer networking.

Thank you to our Event Sponsor

Speakers

Vicky Tomlinson | Partner | Browne Jacbobson Health and Life Sciences
Vicky is a partner with over 15 years’ experience leading transactions in the health and life sciences sector. A winner of the One to Watch – Investment & Advisory category at the HealthInvestor Power List 2025, Vicky is involved in all aspects of corporate work including investments, reorganisations and general company law matters but has a particular focus on M&A.
Her extensive experience in the health and life sciences sector means she acts for a diverse client base ranging from manufacturers and suppliers of medical devices and pharmaceuticals, care home, specialist care and children’s services operators, fertility clinics, health tech innovators, and domestic and international investors. Vicky works with companies at various stages of their development from start-ups and buy and build platforms to large groups and internationally listed companies and particular enjoys helping companies, shareholders and management teams with their strategy for growth and preparing for a successful disposal/exist.
Being one of the leading transactional specialists in the sector, Vicky is regularly invited to attend thought leadership and round table discussion and also leads the firm’s Health and Care Connect networking group which connects over 1,000 members across the health and life sciences sector.

Gerard Hanratty | Head of Health and Life Sciences | Browne Jacobson Health and Life Sciences
Gerard is the Head of Health and Life Sciences and a partner in the firm, specialising in advising organisations in the health sector on their public law obligations and issues. His work covers interpreting statute, supporting system re-organisations, advising on governance, supporting health regulators, providing advice on information law matters and, when necessary, defending challenges to decisions made. He is also recognised as a lead inquiries lawyer for health public bodies.
Gerard is a public law partner and is recognised by the NHS, Chambers and Legal 500 as one of the leading experts on public law issues, especially relating to governance, service reconfiguration, inquiries, information law, devolution and ICS development, for health organisations in the country. Chambers states that – He is described by clients as the “perfect combination of really knowledgeable but also really personable.” Sources note that “he is very approachable, understands the issues well, provides sound advice and listens to what you want. He gives you a considered, measured response.”
Gerard provides clients with specialist public law input on all functions and powers, his expertise is unmatched. This is apparent as he is now sought to support countries outside Europe to develop the legal framework for their health systems.
