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2014 Life Sciences Industry Highlights

2014

WEST MIDLANDS

WHAT SKILLS DO YOU NEED TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS?

January – DH release updated SME Action Plan, outlining activities to support SME’s during the department’s procurement process. February - MHRA appoints new Clinical Director of Medical Devices. March - BIS and DH join together their respective functions around life sciences to create a new, expanded BIS-DH Office for Life Sciences. April - NICE starts consultation on the Methods of Technology Appraisal and Value Based Assessment of Health Technologies. May - BIS announces the allocation of £5.8 billion in science and research funding for the year 2015/16. June - David Willetts announces £48 million investment in Biomedical Research. July - MP George Freeman appointed as UK’s first-ever Minister for Life Sciences, spanning both the DH and BIS.

Our goal remains the same - to help you, our members, grow your business - and we're delighted to be able to offer you SIP approved training courses that can be delivered either by training providers you've identified, or by one of the Medilink Professional Development Master Classes, specifically designed to support medical technologies-based companies.

August - New Co-Chair for NHS Commissioning Assembly appointed to strengthen the connection between NHS England and frontline CCGs.

Types of eligible courses: All SIP approved training courses must fall into one of the following 8 competency areas:

September – MyNHS website launched to improve data sharing, joint project between the DH, NHS England, PHE, the CQC and HSCIC.

Leadership & Personnel Management Commercialisation Market Data & Analysis Laboratory Practice & Formulation Design for Manufacture Quality Assurance Regulatory Compliance Intellectual Property

October - The NHS Five Year Forward View published, setting out a vision for the future of the NHS. November – Innovative Medicines and Med-Tech Review announced. December - Autumn Statement 2014: extra £2b of funding for NHS. December - New UKTI / BIS - UK Life Science Industry Map Website launched. IN THIS ISSUE:

MEDILINKWM MEDICAL & HEALTHCARE BUSINESS AWARDS - SHORTLIST ANNOUNCED MEDILINK AWARDS DINNER - BOOK NOW!

So tell us, what do you need to develop YOUR workforce? If you've identified or are about to undertake any staff development training get in touch, you might be able to apply for a SIP grant for 50% of the costs. For more information see inside.

FOLLOW US: @MEDILINKUK

Medilink 2014 Awards Dinner

8 January 2015 - Bank, Brindley Place, Birmingham Book your place at the Medilink WM Awards Dinner and join in the celebration of the achievements of the region’s leading Healthcare and Life Sciences organisations. The annual Medilink Awards is the premier event in the region's Healthcare Technology calendar, bringing together leading business representatives, clinicians and researchers from across the sector. The Medilink Medical & Healthcare Business Awards Dinner will be held on Thursday 8th January 2015, 4pm – 8pm at Bank, a chic and sophisticated bar and restaurant situated within the cosmopolitan surroundings of Brindley Place, Birmingham and will bring together companies, clinicians and academics to hear the announcement of the five winning companies and to enjoy an evening of networking – with a twist with 2 course dinner and Awards Ceremony. Join us to celebrate the triumphs of our Members at this prestigious event. To book your place contact Sarah Wootton on 0121 452 5630 / [email protected] Members = £25.00 + VAT Non Members = £30.00 + VAT

Don't miss out - to book your place click here!

Need Help Accessing

Grants & Funding?

Do you stand out from the crowd? Does your business have what it takes to get noticed? Improve the quality of and add value to applications through hands on, practical support from TBAT Innovation. To avoid funding application disappointment speak to TBAT, they will be able to advise you if you stand a chance ... or not ... of accessing UK & EU funding. With in excess of £20m in grant funding raised for their clients over the last 12 months in the UK alone, TBAT is able to successfully identify and apply for the appropriate funding for your business needs. If you would like to find out more information regarding the Technology Inspired Innovation grant scheme or would like to discuss scoping an application please contact TBAT Innovation on 01509 670 610 or [email protected] – quote ref: MWM. For a full list of currently open Innovate UK grant funding collaborative competitions please click here.

WINTER 2014

Medilink 2014 Medical & Healthcare Business Awards

Shortlist Announced! The shortlist for the annual Medilink West Midlands Awards has now been announced. The Medilink Awards is the region’s biggest event for celebrating innovation, growth and commercial success of organisations operating in Healthcare Technology and Life Sciences. Joanne Mewis, Services & Membership Manager at Medilink West Midlands said: “The standard of entries we have received for our awards this year has been extremely high. The successes of our shortlisted companies – and of course our winners – should give great confidence about the strength of the Healthcare Technologies sector in this region. The presentation of the Awards at our Awards Dinner event on January 8 will provide the perfect backdrop to this special event. There are five awards being celebrated – and the nominees for the five awards are: The Partnership with the NHS Award - Genesis Automation - Integro Pharmacy - Kimal Plc Renfrew Group International The Innovation Award - Datalink Electronics Ltd - Kimal Plc - Object View Ltd The Export Achievement Award - Natural Wellbeing Ltd - Vascular Flow Technologies

The Start-Up Award - Aston Eye Tech Ltd - Kiddichef Ltd - Spring Active Ltd The Outstanding Achievement Award - Digital Life Sciences - Genesis Automation Physiological Measurements Ltd - Renfrew Group International

The winners of the five awards will be put forward for consideration for next year’s national Medilink UK Awards, which take place at the MedTech Innovation Expo, Ricoh Arena, Coventry, on 29 April 2015. Sponsors: Withers & Rogers LLP, WMAHSN, Calthorpe Estates, University of Birmingham, Marks & Clerk

One aim. Hundreds of members. Infinite possibilities. WINTER 2014

Are Medilink Members Cyber Streetwise? Technology plays a huge part in the business of Medilink members and a cyber attack or incident could be disruptive, damaging, costly or all three. As your business evolves and becomes ever more reliant on technology, the risk of suffering a loss related to problems with computer or IT systems, or from holding sensitive customer data, continues to grow.

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Do you hold sensitive customer details such as names, addresses or banking information? Are you reliant on computer systems to conduct your daily business? Do you have a website? Is your business subject to a payment card industry (PCI) merchant services agreement?

If you are able to answer yes to any of the questions above, then your business could be vulnerable to a data breach or loss of vital business services. Please click here to visit Medilink member IHN Insurance Brokers website where, on the Documents and Download page, you can read the essential information you need to know about Cyber cover as well as case studies explaining how having a Cyber policy could be invaluable to your business. Alternatively, please call IHN on 01384 375555 and speak to Harrison Law who will be happy to advise and help you.

Selection Criteria for

Medical Device Packaging Packaging design is often last on the ‘to do’ list of medical device manufacturers, despite complex regulatory requirements. Industry experts at a recent Medical Device Packaging seminar gave many good reasons why companies should think about it earlier. Cleanroom Technology Journal published a news article about Medilink member Wipak's Medical Packaging Seminar and especially about the selection criteria for medical device packaging. Medical Device Packaging Standards ISO 11607-1 - Packaging for terminally sterilised medical devices, requirements for materials, sterile barrier systems and packaging systems. ISO 11607-2 - Packaging for terminally sterilised medical devices, validation requirements for forming, sealing and assembly processes. ISO/TS 16775 - Guidance for use of ISO 11607. EN-868 Parts 2-10 - Packaging for terminally sterilised medical devices (wraps, pouches and reels…), particular requirements. ISO 13485 - Medical devices - Quality management systems – Requirements for regulatory purposes. To find out more contact Wipak - click here.

WINTER 2014

Major New Report on Digital Technology Health and social care leaders set out plans to transform people's health and improve services using technology. New plans to improve health outcomes and the quality of patient care through digital technology and innovation have been unveiled by national health and social care organisations. Established by the Department of Health and chaired by NHS England’s National Director for Patients and Information, Tim Kelsey, the National Information Board has set out a vision for how technology should work harder and better for patients and citizens by 2020. The vision commits to giving everybody online access to their GP records, viewed through approved apps and digital platforms, by 2015. GP practices are well on their way to achieving this but national leaders want to offer people access to all of their health records – held by hospitals, community, mental health and social care services – by 2018. In just 4 years, every citizen will be able to access their health records at the click of a button, detailing every visit to the GP and hospital, every prescription, test results, and adverse reactions and allergies to drugs. Patients will also be able to record their preferences and thoughts alongside official medical notes. The alliance will establish a national digital standard for people at the end of life – building on the success of Co-ordinate My Care in London – so their care preferences are respected. The digitisation of the Personal Child Health Record (the red book) will offer new mothers personalised mobile care records for their child. Secretary of State Jeremy Hunt said: I want the NHS to be a world class showcase of what innovation can achieve. Today’s plan sets out how we can give patients 21st century, personalised healthcare. Tim Kelsey, National Informatics Director, said: New mothers will now be able to carry their red book around with them on their smart phone and tablet as the NHS moves towards offering digital Personal Child Health Records. This will put an end to worrying about leaving your child’s information at home when going for a review, vaccination, or emergency treatment. We must embrace modern technology to help us lead healthier lives, and if we want - to take more control when are ill. Our ambition is to make the NHS a digital pioneer for our patients and citizens. The framework sets out how real time data will be available to paramedics, doctors and nurses, ensuring patients receive safe and effective at the point of care. All NHS funded care services are expected to have digital and interoperable systems that remove the limitations of paper records and slow bureaucratic systems by 2020. To download a copy of the report click here.

NIHR i4i Funding Opportunities Medtech Funding Opportunities in Health Research The 9th Call for i4i Product Development Awards Now Open i4i will support projects developing any innovative medical technology including medical devices, active implantable devices and in vitro diagnostic devices. i4i will also support projects that utilise and develop techniques or technologies from other industry sectors that could have a potential impact if applied in a healthcare setting. Find out more. The 4th Call for Challenge Awards Now Open. The i4i Challenge Awards address particular ‘challenges’ that are a priority for the NHS and aim to bridge the gap between the innovation and development of new medical technologies and their adoption into clinical pathways. The programme is currently looking for biological therapeutics for cancer. Find out more. The deadline for applications is 1pm on 14 January 2015.

WINTER 2014

Natural Wellbeing – A Year On! Since becoming a Medilink member in February 2014, Natural Wellbeing has had quite a year! Over the last 10 months, Natural Wellbeing has secured over £1m of new business in 25 new countries, taking their export territories to over 95 countries across 6 continents. To highlight the company’s commitment to their key focus markets they have recently appointed three key Relationship Managers in Asia and the Middle East. Natural Wellbeing benefits from The Group’s heavy investment in the development of their manufacturing and packing facility, increasing the fully licensed MHRA approved GMP sites to over 200,000 square feet, creating new jobs across the Midlands-based Group. And the icing on the cake for 2014 saw Darren Lister, Business Development Director for Natural Wellbeing receive a personal invitation to Whitehall to meet with Heads of State, MPs and other dignitaries. Darren Lister said “Medilink and UKTI have been key to our success and the working partnerships we have created have helped us to achieve these fantastic results in only 10 months. I would urge companies who are looking to export or are looking to increase their exporting territories to get involved with their local trade associations.” If you would like to find out more about Natural Wellbeing click here.

The Tweets that got you noticed this year! Social media networks were a novelty 5 years ago, but today their importance is no longer debated. Businesses have definitely realised the power of social media and accepted that social media marketing has to be part of their marketing and PR mix. Share your news with the Medilink WM team and we share with our Twitter followers across the health technology sector. With over 450 new followers this year alone, @MedilinkUK followers include key influencers and decision makers from Government, the NHS, Academia, Funding Organisations, Trade Associations and Industry. Keep us in the loop and we’ll help to raise your profile across the healthcare sector. Email your news to: [email protected] At MEDICA 12-15 Nov? Visit Trajan (Hall 1 F32) Grale HDS microscope slides & cover glasses & chance to win MiPlatform bit.ly/1DjwkP5 81 views / 1 link visit / 1 Retweet Primasil Silicones patent new easy to secure & release, 100% latex free tourniquet for unrivalled patient comfort bit.ly/1yyXeFE 112 views / 1 Retweet Patients to benefit as The BioHub, due to open October, gets its first tenants NanoTi a Hungarian start-up company bit.ly/1sZ9DeO 122 views / 1 favorite / 6 link visits / 1 Retweet Listen in to RealityBites' new blog from Ben Gowland CEO NHS Nene CCG & Joe Tibbetts publisher of Information Daily bit.ly/1Cj62ie 66 views / 1 Retweet Staffs & Stoke on Trent Partnership Trust pilot the Health Fabric App for patients with long term conditions bit.ly/1th3cWW 196 views / 1 link visit / 2 Retweets Binding Site's Freelite® & Hevylite® help Black Swan Research Initiative find best treatment to cure Multiple Myeloma bit.ly/1mWR4HO 105 views / 1 link visit / 1 Retweet

WINTER 2014

We’re Not Going to Tell You How to Run Your Business, But We Can Help You Grow It!

The Small Business Charter Growth Vouchers Programme is still accepting applications. This new Government initiative offers you a free business diagnostic workshop and 1-on-1 mentoring session worth £500, and a chance to access a full course of training on small business growth from a national consortium of leading Business Schools. The Government’s match-funding grant of £2,000 will pay for half of your strategic business and management training, which covers the common areas small businesses like yours face when growing their business – identifying the growth potential, recruiting and managing your team, finding the funding to make it happen, and marketing strategies to deliver the results. Something you might expect to cost you a great deal more. Aston Business School has an outstanding track record in supporting small businesses to grow, so click here to find out more and apply online. It’s a short application which will ensure you’re not wasting valuable time in the busy run up to Christmas. Or if you prefer the personal approach, get in touch with us by emailing [email protected] or calling 0121 204 4822 for more information.

Digital Life Sciences Helps Create a New NHS Medilink member Digital Life Sciences is contributing to the NHS of the future, according to a report endorsed by the head of NHS England. The work of DLS has been cited in the NHS Five Year Forward View, a publication launched by Simon Stevens, chief executive of NHS England. As an example of a new model of care, it cites the Vitality Health Hub, created by Digital Life Sciences in partnership with Birmingham GP super-practice Vitality Partnership, commissioned through the Prime Minister’s Challenge Fund in April 2014. Robin Vickers, chief executive and founder of Digital Life Sciences, said: “We are delighted that our pioneering delivery of healthcare has been recognised as a future model for the NHS in England. Our mission is to become the UK’s first truly digital healthcare provider. This report endorses our way of doing this.” To find out more, read DLS is contributing to the NHS of the future.

WINTER 2014

Have Your Say: Biomedical Catalyst (BMC) Survey Commissioned for Applicants of Business-Led Projects from all BMC Competitions The Biomedical Catalyst (BMC) was set up in response to the government’s Strategy for Life Sciences (Dec 2011), with the goals of delivering economic growth to the UK Life Sciences sector, bringing innovative life sciences products and services more quickly and effectively into healthcare, and to provide support to both commercial and academic-led research in a seamless, effective and efficient manner. Innovate UK (formerly the Technology Strategy Board) and the Medical Research Council have appointed Ipsos MORI to conduct an independent study to capture measures of the extent to which these goals have been achieved, including the economic and broader societal impacts that accrue from the projects that have been awarded funding under the BMC scheme. Emerging findings will be made available in mid-2015. In early 2015, Ipsos MORI will conduct a survey among applicants (both successful and unsuccessful), to gauge views on and gather evidence and data relevant to, the issues to be explored by the study. Innovate UK has emailed applicants of business-led projects from all BMC competition rounds to date to enable opt-out from the survey. If you did not receive the opt-out email and want to be sure that your current email address is added to the mailing list of BMC applicants to be shared with Ipsos MORI, please contact: [email protected]

Renfrew Group International and De Montfort University Awarded 'Highly Commended' at the IET Awards 2014

Michael Phillips of Renfrew Group International at the IET Awards 2014

Renfrew Group International and De Montfort University awarded 'Highly Commended' in both the Healthcare Technologies and Intelligent Systems categories at the IET awards for the InSmart Artificial Pancreas. The 2014 Innovation Awards ceremony and dinner was held at the Brewery, Chiswell Street, London, on 19 November 2014. Over 500 people attended to share the excitement with the finalists as the winners were announced. Entries for the IET Healthcare Technologies Innovation Award category were welcomed from academic, industrial, clinical, consulting and service organisations which have developed or demonstrated innovative technology in healthcare enabling technology or applications, or for the innovative use of existing technology in health management for assisted living, with for instance, innovations addressing the ageing agenda or global health challenges. The Intelligent Systems category recognises excellence in the development of 'intelligent systems', the new wave of embedded and real-time systems that are typically highly connected, have massive processing power, and perform complex functions that are often safety-critical or mission critical. These systems are found across industry sectors, from automotive, rail, aerospace and defence to energy, healthcare, telecoms and consumer electronics. The IET awards are an outstanding opportunity to celebrate the role of science, engineering and technology in the pursuit of health and wellbeing in all its manifestations, from a worldwide perspective. To find out more about Medilink member Renfrew Group visit the website – click here.

WINTER 2014

Lake Region Medical Extending the reach of global medical device companies Introducing Lake Region Medical and their UK Business Development Manager, Dan Healy

Lake Region Medical's "Tubing Centre of Excellence" opened in October 2014.

Medilink member Lake Region Medical collaborates with the world’s leading medical device companies to deliver life-changing innovations that enhance the lives of patients. Backed by decades of experience and clinical expertise, we help customers bring products from concept to point-of-care in the Cardio & Vascular and Advanced Surgical markets. Lake Region Medical offers fully integrated, outsourced manufacturing and engineering services, contract manufacturing, finished device assembly, original device development and supply chain management services. We provide value to a range of organisations in a number of different markets. For small organisations, we can help them to grow by providing the resources and expertise to help them launch new products. For mid-size organisations, we can provide technical knowledge and supply chain solutions to help them to continue to grow and enter new markets. For large organisations, we can help to rationalise their portfolios on make vs. buy decisions and be a manufacturer for those items that make sense to be handled by a leading contract manufacturing organisation. Lake Region Medical is comprised of two core focus areas; Cardio & Vascular and Advanced Surgical. Our Cardio & Vascular group is focused on Electrophysiology, Stimulation Therapy, Cardiovascular & Structural Heart, Peripheral, Neurovascular & Urology, and Vascular Access. This team has an unmatched knowledge of catheter and guidewire technology that has been developed over decades. Our Advanced Surgical group is focused on Arthroscopy, Biopsy and Drug Delivery, Endoscopy, Laparoscopy and Orthopedics. With teams that have expertise in each of these areas Lake Region Medical is able to help customers bring products to market faster and with excellent results on quality, delivery and cost.

Helping our Customers Bring Products to Market Faster Lake Region Medical is committed to innovation and helping our customers to bring their products to market faster than ever. With this in mind Lake Region Medical recently opened the “Tubing Centre of Excellence”. This rapid development, prototype and production area utilises one of Lake Region Medical’s core technologies, metal tubing drawing, combined with its machining capabilities to create tubular components for medical devices in days and weeks rather than months, as the industry is accustomed. This new resource will allow our customers to work with us onsite to see the results of their developments in real time making the process of ideation and innovation faster than ever. For more information about our organisation and how we can provide value to your team, please visit us at www.lakeregionmedical.com. For enquiries about how we might be able to assist your organisation please e-mail our UK Business Development Manager, Dan Healy at [email protected]

WINTER 2014

The European Code of Practice for Telehealth Services The European Code of Practice for Telehealth Services provides a quality service benchmark that helps engender trust in telehealth among service commissioners, users and carers. It plays a part in helping realise service improvements at the interface of health and social care. The Code was developed through the European Commission funded TeleSCoPE project led by Coventry University. It is rooted in the public and preventative rather than clinic health arena and pays particular attention to the needs and choices of service users and the manner in which their personal data is safeguarded and used. It is also concerned with behaviours and lifestyles as well as the treatment and management of long-term conditions. The first service accredited to the Code is that of the East London NHS Foundation Trust. They offer two types of telehealth service. The Florence (‘Flo’) service includes questionnaires and a phone application for service users who text in their health readings (for example, pulse rate, blood pressure). Other service users with more complex needs use a television set top box (Motiva) for sending readings, completing questionnaires and watching educational TV clips. If there is any cause for concern with submitted readings, the service user is contacted by a health professional and given appropriate advice. Nine telehealth services have now registered with a view to becoming accredited to the Code. Assessments are undertaken in collaboration with the international company DNV GL. These will take place under the 2015 version of the Code due for release in January. The registered services span from Ireland to Malta and Norway. With the completion of the TeleSCoPE project the Telehealth Quality Group EEIG is being set up to take the Code forward. In the meantime information about the Code is available at www.telehealthcode.eu.

NEW MEMBERS Aston EyeTech Limited http://www.astoneyetech.com

AEL was set up in order to commercialise exciting new products emerging from Aston University’s Faculty of Life and Health Sciences – specifically its Vision Sciences Department, its internationally renowned School of Optometry, and its Biomedical Engineering department. The Company’s products are focused on supporting primary care optometry, both on the high street and in the public health arena, both at home and overseas. But we also have systems and services for domiciliary providers and the clinical trials market.

Black Pepper Software http://www.blackpepper.co.uk

Our clients include small local companies, SMEs and large Blue Chip companies. We use Agile practices to provide our clients with a fast, cost effective, high quality service offering. Bespoke Software: Black Pepper has a proven track record of creating and implementing enterprise scale software architectures specifically tailored for each client, designed to meet even the most demanding requirements. Consultancy: We are able to use our collective experience and expertise to provide consulting services to a wide variety of IT set ups. Whether you’re looking for Agile coaching or troubleshooting, Black Pepper can help.

Health Exchange CIC http://www.healthexchange.org.uk

Health Exchange has been promoting health and wellbeing and tackling health inequalities since early 2007. Our approach to healthy living helps people identify the changes to their lifestyle which they decide they want to make, based on their own health needs and priorities, and then supports them in making those changes part of their daily lives.

Polyflon Technology Ltd http://www.polyflon.co.uk

Fluoroplastics are an essential component in almost all present day hi-tech industries. Whether your field is medical, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, microelectronics, high purity fine chemicals, environmental monitoring, oil & gas or pilot plant research, fluoropolymers processed by Polyflon play a vital role. Polyflon Technology’s manufacturing capabilities now include thermoforming, machining, fabrication and various types of moulding operations.

Vascular Flow Technologies Ltd http://www.vascular-flow.com

Vascular Flow Technologies is a dynamic, growing medical devices company operating globally. We are focused on the research, development and commercialisation of vascular devices based on a new understanding of blood flow dynamics – Spiral Laminar Flow™. Our objective is to help Clinicians improve patient outcomes in Vascular Interventions through the development of Devices that restore normal Spiral Laminar Blood flow. Our innovative technology is currently applied to two synthetic grafts: our Spiral Flow™ peripheral bypass graft and our Spiral Flow™ arteriovenous access graft for haemodialysis.

WINTER 2014

SCIENCE INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIP (SIP) SECURES DELIVERY AGREEMENT WITH MEDILINK UK AND ABHI A partnership agreement has been secured with Medilink West and East Midlands in collaboration with the Association of British Healthcare Industries (ABHI) as key industry representative bodies, which will deliver a package of SIP skills interventions into the Medical Technology (MedTech) sector. The Partnership will deliver at least 1656 adult learners through the SIP Skills for Growth Workforce Development programme, as well as 40 SIP Traineeships. The new, quality assured SIP programmes have been designed by employers for employers, and are aimed at recruiting new talent as well as developing current employees across the science industries. The agreement also includes a MedTech Working Group which will meet as part of the SIP Governance structure, and will include companies and stakeholders within the MedTech sector, who have expressed their interest in taking a proactive role. The Group will directly influence the development of new employer designed skills programme, targeting priorities for the medical technology sector. Malcolm Skingle, GSK Director and SIP Chair said: “This is a positive agreement which will enable the SIP to reach the skills needs of the MedTech sector and in particular the large number of SME employers which make up the industry, and is fully supported by the members of the SIP Board.” Darren Clark, CEO Medilink East Midlands added: “Medical technologies is a fast changing, multi-faceted industry, where talented scientists and engineers use their considerable skills to solve medical needs and make concepts a reality. We are delighted that Medilink UK and the ABHI are joint delivery partners – this agreement will provide a means for co-investment by employers and government, as well as bringing a clear emphasis on areas where skills are needed most.” Andy Taylor, Executive Director Government Policy ABHI said: “The strategically important MedTech sector comprises a workforce of many different disciplines including regulatory approval, engineering and manufacturing. Millions of UK patients depend on advances in such medical technology – from pacemakers to precision surgical instruments – it is vital that we continue to innovate through equipping people in the sector with the very best skills.” To establish the SIP, employers from the science-using industries successfully submitted a bid into the Government’s Employer Ownership of Skills Pilot. This sees government contributing £32.6 million, with £20 million co-investment from employers, alongside £31 million in-kind employer contributions. Cogent is the expert delivery partner to the SIP. To find out more about engaging with SIP, MedTech companies should contact Beverley Fearnley at [email protected] This project has been partly supported by HM Government with Employer Ownership funding.

WINTER 2014

EVENTS LISTING Medilink WM Medical & Healthcare Business Awards Dinner Location: Bank, Birmingham Date: 8th January 2015 Duration: 4pm - 8pm Medilink WM invites you to join us for the Medilink WM 2014 Medical & Healthcare Business Awards on the 8th January 2015 at Bank Restaurant, Brindley Place, Birmingham. Guests will have the opportunity to network - with a twist before being seated for the Awards Dinner as we celebrate the triumphs of our members. Book Now

EMAHSN Diabetes Innovation Exchange Location: Hilton East Midlands Airport Date: 27th January 2015 Duration: 9am - 4pm EMAHSN, supported by our NHS partner organisations throughout the East Midlands, has designated diabetes prevention and treatment as one of our key clinical priorities.

Med-Tech Innovation Expo 2015 incorporating the Medilink UK Healthcare Business Awards & Gala Dinner 2015 29 – 30 April 2015. Ricoh Arena, Coventry Med-Tech Innovation Expo is a 100% dedicated medical technology event where you can meet top suppliers to discuss your design and manufacturing issues, establish new supplier partnerships and network with your industry peers. The show floor seminars will offer you the opportunity to learn about the latest updates in many key areas and the high level conference ensures a quality learning experience. The Med-Tech Innovation Expo also incorporates: The Medilink UK Healthcare Business Awards and Gala Dinner 2015 Every year the eyes of the UK's Life Sciences sector focus on the Medilink UK Healthcare Business Awards. This year the awards will take place at the Med-Tech Innovation Expo on the evening of Wednesday 29th April, as part of a Gala Dinner. It will be an evening of great food, great fun and of course, great networking! Find out more and book your place – click here.

Book Now

Med-Tech Innovation Expo Location: Ricoh Arena, Coventry Date: 29-30 April 2015 Med-Tech Innovation Expo is 100% dedicated medical device manufacturing in the UK. Given that the industry is so highly regulated and it's research, design, development and manufacturing is so unique, Med-Tech Innovation Expo provides a specialist, focused event. Book Now

WINTER 2014

Trends in Medical Technology 2015 by Rob Phillips, Managing Director of Accutronics Ltd Medical technology (MedTech) is one of the world’s fastest growing industries. We are excited at Accutronics to have launched our latest smart-battery range at COMPAMED, the international trade show. We are looking forward to some great innovations in 2015. 1. Power and energy requirements on the rise for portable battery-powered MedTech devices The last decade has borne witness to rapid innovation in the medical market. Devices have become smaller and as a result, smarter and more intricate components are increasingly in demand. However, there is now an increased demand for mobile technology used in hospitals and in the field, including acute ventilators, portable anaesthesia workstations and intra-oral scanners. In the year ahead, we will see a trend for portable, battery-powered, medical devices delivering high power discharge from batteries with high energy densities used in mobile hospital setups and emergency services use. 2. Security in MedTech is a concern for OEMs' brands and reputations However, this rise in portability will see companies push further into securing their products. Accutronics has already made headway into improved security by making available a hardwareembedded software algorithm (SHA-1) which can identify and isolate fake batteries, stopping them from being used in critical-care devices. This also provides better batch traceability and deters fraudulent warranty claims. 3. Western OEMs competing to win market share of premium MedTech in Asia As the Asian market matures, 2015 will also see the trend for European and North American MedTech OEMs begin to establish a more permanent presence in Asian and Far Eastern economies to secure and win market share of the fast growing premium industry sector. 4. Anti-microbial surfaces provide an extra line of defence against superbugs Finally, 2015 will see OEMs begin to widely consider the role of antimicrobial polymers and coatings for use in device mouldings, casings and on touchable surfaces to minimise the spread of superbugs such as MRSA. To find out more about Medilink member Accutronics and their smart-battery range visit the website click here.

WINTER 2014

HDTI Help Coventry Inventor Develop Novel Foot Stool A Coventry inventor is looking for a commercial partner to manufacture a new product which has improved his backache.

Guy Smallman from HDTI demonstrating the Fidgety Foot Stool

Gerald Cooke has developed a novel foot stool which he believes has led to a massive improvement in his sciatica which he has suffered for the last ten years. The 60-year-old came up with the idea of the non-slip Fidgety Foot Stool after discovering he could improve the symptoms by gently moving and changing the position of his feet on the asymmetric product when he was sitting down. After developing a prototype, Mr Cooke contacted Medilink member Coventry University Health Design & Technology Institute (HDTI) for advice. He was able to take advantage of HDTI’s Assistive Technologies and Community Healthcare Development Project, provided by the European Regional Development Fund, which paid for the research of an independent usability study and expert appraisal. Encouraged by the extremely positive results, he has protected the intellectual property in the Fidgety Foot Stool by registering the design and has commissioned HDTI for help in finding a commercial partner to license his idea and manufacture the product. Mr Cooke said the Fidgety Foot Stool could alleviate the symptoms of sciatica, back pain, restless leg syndrome and other health conditions. “By using it as a foot stool, you can rest your feet or ankles on it in a variety of heights, angles and positions and tilt it so that it is in the most comfortable position for you,” he said. “I use it when I’m sat at home watching television and, as well as improving my sciatica so I’m not in as much pain, it stretches your calves and thigh muscles. “The name fidgety foot stool came to mind because that is what you would do with it – fidget. I have taken the product as far as I can so I now need help from a company who is interested in manufacturing and selling it under licence.” HDTI Commercial Development Director Guy Smallman said the foot stool had been evaluated by a group of physiotherapists who have experience of dealing with people with posture and back problems. He said: “Their response was very positive and some studies which we carry out are not as encouraging as this. “The physiotherapists felt it would appeal to a wide market rather than just older people or people with specific health conditions. The real novelty is the associated movement that the user has, rather than it simply being a stool for a person to balance their feet on. It can also be used for gentle exercise. “The next stage now is to manufacture the product. Under the terms of the licence, the business would have the exclusive monopoly rights to make and sell it.” For more information about the Fidgety Foot Stool and to explore potential licensing opportunities, please contact Guy Smallman, Commercial Development Director at Coventry University HDTI, at [email protected]

WINTER 2014

Aston University Embark on Second Knowledge Transfer Partnership Aston University has embarked on a second Knowledge Transfer Partnership with a high street optometry practice, which will look into the eye health of an ageing population. BBR Optometry Ltd is a successful, independent and privately-owned high street optometry practice, delivering a mix of private and NHS clinical services alongside a core retail business of spectacles and contact lens sales. The company operates in a market which is increasingly dominated by large retailers which compete for standard services such as the provision of spectacles and contact lenses. Alongside, and as a result of the first KTP BBR Optometry has already successfully differentiated its business model into enhanced clinical services and the second KTP will build on this success with novel approaches to patient care. BBR’s first project with Aston University identified business opportunities in the provision of treatment on ageing eyes and age-related conditions, as they recognised a growing market among ageing patients that are taking responsibility for their own treatment and seeking improved care outside the NHS. As a result, this project with Aston aims to develop a transferable model to manage and communicate with patients with sight issues related to age. Conditions such as Dry Eye Syndrome are not well managed, due to them not being sight-threatening. However, research has shown that this condition can have a dramatic impact on quality of life. This project, led by Dr Shehzad Naroo, Senior Lecturer of Optometry at Aston, has the potential to develop systems and protocols to deal with the effects of an ageing population and conditions associated with the ‘ageing eye’ which would improve care to the community.

Financial Support up to 30.000 Euro's for SME's Developing Biobased Innovations SME’s can now access ‘Innovation Coupons’ worth up to 30.000 euros to assess the feasibility of an innovative bio-based process at Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant in Ghent, Belgium. These Innovation Coupons are an initiative of Bio Base NWE, a project to support the development of the bio-based economy in North West Europe (NWE). So far, the partnership granted fifteen innovation coupons worth 10.000 euros to smaller SME’s to validate bio-based ideas. Raising the value of the coupon to a potential amount of 30.000 euros, provides Bio Base NWE with an extra tool to also assist larger SME’s looking for process-validation and to shorten the time-to-market for bio-based innovations in general. Bio Base NWE is a three-year and 6.2 million euro project launched by the European Commission in 2013 to support the development of the bio-based economy in North West Europe (NWE). The Bio Base NWE partnership includes organisations from five different countries and works mainly with small and medium businesses (SME’s) to help facilitate innovation and business development in bio-based technologies. One of the tools of the partnership is financial support by way of Innovation Coupons. “The Innovation Coupon which Celtic Renewables received, enabled the company to achieve the smooth transition of its innovative process technology to the Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant, and the commencement of scale-up trials of the technology.” says Marc Simmers, CEO of Celtic Renewables, an Edinburgh-based bio-butanol company. NNFCC is the UK project partner for Bio Base NWE. Any UK based SME looking into scaling up a bio-based process should contact NNFCC to discuss the possible opportunities that Bio Base NEW has to offer. To read the full press release, please click here.

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Patient Safety Symposium The West Midlands Academic Health Science Network held a Patient Safety Symposium on 5 November 2014. You can access the presentations and attendee list for the event, and feedback and discussions have been captured in a Patient Safety Symposium output report.

WMAHSN blog: “…and social care?” Nick Smith, of Home Instead Senior Care – an independent UK home care provider which operates franchises providing home care support – writes for the WMAHSN in the first of series of guest blogs, examining the disparate social care terrain and how this contributes to the barriers to integration between health and social care. To read the blog - click here.

Patent Box –

Could Your Business Benefit? The UK Government’s Patent Box Scheme allows organisations paying corporate tax in the UK to be able to apply for tax relief on worldwide profits made from patented products or products incorporating patented components.

Marks & Clerk Patent Box Update Compromise with Germany

The UK and Germany have reached a compromise over tax breaks provided for by the UK Patent Box. The Patent Box allows companies to pay lower taxes on profits from patented products. In effect, the current rate of 21 per cent can be reduced to 10 per cent by 1 April 2017. Under the current scheme, companies can qualify for the Patent Box if they are liable for UK corporation tax and make a profit from exploiting patented inventions. However, Germany has been vocal in criticising the present arrangement on the basis that it encourages artificial shifting of profits from countries with higher tax regimes. Under the new agreement, the UK will join other OECD countries in only granting tax breaks for patents directly tied to research and innovation at home. As such, the question of eligibility will depend on the location of the R&D expenditure associated with the development of the patent or product. However, where related outsourcing or acquisition costs are incurred, which do not qualify directly as R&D expenditure, it is proposed that companies will be able to obtain a maximum 30 per cent uplift of their qualifying expenditure (subject to a cap on the actual expenditure). The existing regime is likely to close to new entrants (products and patents) in June 2016 but “grandfathering” will allow IP in the existing regime to retain tax benefits until June 2021. Companies should therefore consider applying for the patent box before June 2016 if they wish to benefit under the more relaxed qualifying criteria presently in operation. This agreement comes just as the Irish government is considering introducing their version of a Patent Box – which they refer to as a “Knowledge Box”. It therefore remains to be seen, as to whether application of the Irish scheme is similarly curtailed. Medilink member Marks & Clerk offers a full patent service, from strategy to filing, prosecution and enforcement and will happily advise on how Patent Box could benefit your organisation. For more information, contact Pamela Bryer on 0121 643 5881 / [email protected] Author: Pamela Bryer, Partner, Birmingham Chartered Patent Attorney (UK), European Patent Attorney, European Design Attorney.

WINTER 2014

Fischer Connectors Celebrating 60 ‘Happy’ Years' Fischer Connectors celebrates its 60th anniversary this year And what a year! Fischer Connectors continues to lead the trend of miniaturisation with the extension of the Fischer MiniMax™ Series to include both a 19 and 24 pin configuration, giving designers more flexibility, especially where space and weight restrictions play a role. Click here to find out more about the Fischer MiniMax™ Series. Just a few months after the launch of the Fischer FiberOptic Series Hybrid, Fischer Connectors received two awards for this revolutionary product. This unique solution of two fiber channels and two electrical contacts in one small high performance connector offered in a single rugged connecting solution allows both power and data to be transmitted flawlessly through one connector, saving space, money, design and installation time. Fischer customer Fougerolle integrated the Fischer FiberOptic Series Hybrid solution in its CamiFlex product and won the SATIS & Mediakwest trophy in the category Production and Broadcast in France. Also receiving two awards in the USA in August this year, the hybrid connecting solution of two fibers and two electrical contacts proved to be successful. Click here to find out more about the Fischer FiberOptic Series Hybrid. The Fischer Disposable Series meets the needs of medical device manufacturers whose products are designed for disposal after a short number of uses. The new Fischer Disposable Turnkey Solution has similar features as the rest of the disposable range but is pre-cabled and therefore immediately useable in an application. The Fischer Disposable Turnkey Solution has an ingress protection of IP65 (IEC 60529), is completely dust tight and protected against water and also provides a high degree of electrical insulation. Click here to find out more about the Fischer Disposable Series. Fischer Connections also hit a record number of visitors to their stand at Electronica 2014 in Munich, Germany in November this year. The spectacular way of displaying the high performance push-pull connectors brought a large number of visitors to the Fischer Connectors booth. Not only the four holographic display windows placed at each corner of the Fischer Connectors stand were eye-catchers for the Electronica visitors. The way of presenting the main product lines and new product features got a lot of interest. To find out why click here. And finally to mark their milestone anniversary Medilink member Fischer Connectors, one of the world’s leaders in push-pull connectors and cable assembly solutions created its own video version of the global hit ‘Happy’ filmed at the headquarters in Saint-Prex, Switzerland. To view the video click here.

Fischer FiberOptic Series Hybrid

WINTER 2014

Fischer MiniMax™ Series

GP Joins West Midlands’ Trail-Blazers in Prestigious List of Healthcare Innovators A clinician working with the West Midlands Academic Health Science Network (WMAHSN) has been named in the UK’s most prestigious list of innovators in healthcare.

Ruth Chambers OBE, named as one of the HSJ’s Top 50 Innovators for 2014.

Professor Ruth Chambers OBE has been named one of the Health Service Journal (HSJ) Top Innovators 2014. The list celebrates those working in the NHS and the wider healthcare sector who have taken innovative approaches that make a tangible difference to patients, their colleagues or wider society. Ruth is the Clinical Lead for long term conditions for the WMAHSN, and combines this busy role with being a GP in Stoke-on-Trent, and clinical telehealth lead at Stoke-on-Trent Clinical Commissioning Group. Ruth has been instrumental in a number of programmes with the WMAHSN, most notably in establishing a wide range of clinical applications for the innovative Simple Telehealth/Flo service. This enables remote interaction and support between patients with certain long term conditions and their clinicians via mobile phone texting. Working with the WMAHSN, Ruth is now supporting the rollout and development of STH/ Flo across the West Midlands and the impact will be evaluated to enable the intelligent commissioning of health services in the future. Ruth was welcomed onto the list at a reception in London, hosted by the HSJ. She said: “I was really pleased to have national recognition that the work I’ve led on with very productive colleagues had been recognised, especially the difference we’ve made to improving the quality of care of long term conditions in Stoke-on-Trent, and in promoting telehealth as a way of delivering good quality clinical care. I realised from talking to other ‘innovators’ at the reception how similar their personalities were: real optimists who believe they can make a difference, with the strength to drive through their service improvements.” The HSJ invited readers to name those they thought their judges should consider, and a panel of expert judges were asked review the long list and add suggestions of their own. The judges said of Ruth that “by changing clinical support for long term conditions, she is a pioneer in an area which lots of people talk about but from which they back off when the going gets tough.” Alastair McLellan, editor of HSJ, said: “Our list, we’re pleased to say, is diverse, encompassing everything from top-flight clinicians at the leading edge of their research fields through to frontline staff, patients, managers and simply free-thinking spirits, from within and outside the NHS, who have brought their imagination and creativity to bear.” The full list can be found on the HSJ website.

WINTER 2014

Exciting New Self Adhesive Label Solution for Track & Trace, Anti-Counterfeiting and Product Information, from Goldcrest Products Medilink member Goldcrest Products in conjunction with The Security and iDentity (SEiD) Platform can offer a unique Track and Trace solution for medical and pharmaceutical applications. What’s more the information stored can be accessed securely and simply through a smart phone or tablet via a free App. This means that individual items can provide One to One Consumer Communication, Anti-Counterfeiting and Track & Trace; any time, any place, anywhere. Goldcrest Secure QR Codes are compliant with existing and forthcoming industry legislation, including the Global, European and United States serialisation regulations. The information stored and accessed via the QR Code can include anything from manufacturing data to usage or servicing records to installation and usage information but remains totally secure to only those authorised to access or update the information. For example, secure QR Codes can allow the authorised user to access purpose built websites and data. This means it is now possible to get immediate access to unbiased, ‘code compliant’ information and download Apps that can provide much more information than traditional leafleting. For example, Healthcare Professionals can have all the information they need at their fingertips. Logistics personnel can Track and Trace each pack at any stage along the supply chain. Suppliers, distributors and consumers can determine the authenticity of each pack. The SEiD Platform interfaces with current and proposed manufacturers’ technologies and IT/ERP/CRM systems. De-identified data can be collected and analysed to provide ‘real-world’ data and evidence on distribution, authentication, product usage etc. This data can be used to further improve supply chains, treatments and healthcare to give manufacturers and customers complete confidence. Goldcrest supply a wide range of medical self adhesive label solutions, including Clean Room Ready, Security and Sterilisation Indicator labels For further information contact: Mick Bowler, Goldcrest Labels, [email protected]

R&D Tax Credit Boost for SME Companies in Autumn Statement The Chancellor George Osborne announced in his Autumn statement that the Government is increasing the R&D Tax Credit for SME companies, rising from 225 per cent to 230 per cent. This is effective from 1st April 2015. Osborne said ‘we want to help British businesses do more research and development – this is crucial to our productivity’. R&D Tax Credits have also been increased for large companies, rising from 10 per cent to 11 per cent. So for each £100 of qualifying costs, your company or organisation could have its Corporation Tax profits reduced by an additional £130 on top of the £100 spent. This means the company will reduce its Corporation Tax bill and in some cases receive a cash refund from HMRC. This announcement from the Chancellor is not only good news for companies who already claim R&D Tax Credits but will also raise awareness of the scheme and urge businesses which have not claimed in the past to review their previous 2 accounting periods and submit a claim. If you would like to be connected with a specialist to discuss a potential R&D Tax Credit claim in confidence, in the first instance get in touch with Joanne Mewis, Membership Manager, Medilink WM, [email protected]

WINTER 2014

Kimal Celebrates 50 Years in the Medical Device Industry & Raises £50,000 for Make-A-Wish Foundation On Saturday 15th November, Kimal celebrated its 50th anniversary with a bang at the International Conference Centre in Birmingham. With 370 guests from across the world attending a 'One Night Only' gala evening, Medilink member Kimal celebrated it's 50th year within the medical device industry and shared its success and longevity with its associates. The evening began with a drinks reception where all guests had the chance to mingle and meet other people within the company as well as mingling with the VIPs. This was followed by dinner reception where wine and champagne flowed freely whilst the guests were treated to entertainment hosted by television actress Claire Sweeney. CEO Alan Press and his wife Sue's love of West End musicals was reflected in the evenings entertainment which included musical performances from much loved shows such as Les Misérables, Miss Saigon, Phantom of the Opera, and Chicago. The audience was able to enjoy the spectacle with the use of their personalised theatre binoculars. The Press family were invited on to the stage where Diana Press, resplendent in a blue dress reminiscent of the Kimal colours, gave a speech followed by a short review of Kimal’s history from Alan Press. Guests heard of Kimal’s inception in George Press’ garden shed, Alan and his sister Kim’s early involvement in the business after school and the difficulties experienced dealing internationally in an era where there were no mobile phones or video chat. After the dinner reception, guests let their hair down and were treated to classic Beatles hits performed by The Mersey Beatles serving as the soundtrack to the early days of Kimal. Kimal’s fundraising efforts for the last year were also celebrated with a speech made by Steve Minett and Managing Director Mark Pettitt reviewing the activities Kimal employees have taken part in in order to raise the target of £50,000 for Make-A-Wish foundation, a charity that helps grant magical wishes to children and young people fighting life-threatening conditions. Proceeds from the sale of the evening's programme, from the raffle and from sponsorship of the gala were also added to the balance and donated to the Make A Wish® foundation. "It has been amazing to see the generosity of spirit within this organisation," says Steve. It was announced that Kimal has met its target and on Friday 28th November a cheque for £50,000 was presented to Annabel Hill from the charity. Ms Hill said "Kimal’s fantastic fundraising achievement has helped make the wishes of 12-14 seriously ill children come true and since being established in the UK in 1986, Make-A-Wish have granted more than 9,000 wishes."

Many congratulations Kimal and to all of your sponsors & donors who helped you to achieve this fantastic 50th Anniversary Year goal.

Steve Minnett says “What we’ve accomplished is a fantastic achievement.” He goes on to say, “I am honestly really moved by the generosity shown throughout this whole event and was proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with everyone.” Fundraising activities over the past year have included a 100 mile bike ride around Staffordshire by the managing director, a marathon completed by Kimal’s purchasing manager, completion of the 3 peaks challenge by Kimal’s HR advisor and quality engineer, a five a side football tournament involving staff from all Kimal sites, as well as cake sales, bring and buy sales and much more.

WINTER 2014

Funding Opportunities / Competitions Solving Urban Challenges With Data - Feasibility Study Key features: Investment of up to £2.5m for feasibility studies projects for innovative, commercial solutions to increase the resilience, quality of life or economic performance of urban areas by integrating environmental, social and/or economic data with data from other sources. • Award: Up to £2.5m • Opens: 08 Dec 2014 • Registration closes: 11 Mar 2015 • Closes: 18 Mar 2015 Solving Urban Challenges with Data - Collaborative R&D Key features: Investment of up to £5m for collaborative R&D projects for innovative, commercial solutions to increase the resilience, quality of life or economic performance of urban areas by integrating environmental, social and/or economic data with data from other sources. • Award: Up to £5m • Opens: 08 Dec 2014 • Registration closes: 21 Jan 2015 • Closes: 28 Jan 2015 Industrial Biotechnology Catalyst - Round 3 - Various Early-stage - Translation Industrial Research Late-stage - Experimental development Early-stage - Feasibility studies Late-stage - Pre-experimental feasibility studies

To see a full list of current Innovate UK funding competitions click here

Entec Health Wins E-Health Insider Healthcare IT Product Innovation Award 2014 for Silhouette E-Health Insider hosts the EHI Awards annually to recognise Excellence in Healthcare IT, based on the vision, commitment and success delivered by healthcare and industry professionals. At the recent EHI Awards night held in London, Entec Health was announced as overall winner of the Healthcare IT Product Innovation category. Medilink member Entec Health is delighted to have this recognition for Silhouette. The company has introduced the transformative Silhouette technology to the UK market, enabling clinicians to effectively assess, measure and track wound healing progress with objective and quantified data compared to currently used wound assessment methods which are largely subjective, cumbersome and unreliable. The SilhouetteStar camera, SilhouetteConnect application software and SilhouetteCentral wound information database are key components of the innovation and available as an integrated system, the only solution of its type available on the market. Health professionals can accurately and rapidly capture digital clinical information on wound status and wound healing progress at the point-of-care, using Silhouette's state-of-the-art wound imaging, 3D wound measurement and information management technology. Clinicians at early adopter sites in the NHS confirm positive experience of Silhouette as a time-saving, easy to use and robust technology for assessing wound status, generating electronic documentation and tracking wound healing outcomes with greater reliability. "Silhouette represents a significant innovation for wound management practice as the technology enables a better, faster and easier way of generating accurate clinical information on wound healing progress. This means clinicians can be more timely and effective with treatment planning and the management of the patient" commented Achala Patel, Managing Director, Entec Health. To find out more visit the website - click here.

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Tony Davis, Commercial Director of the West Midlands Academic Health Science Network takes to the podium to launch the WMAHSN’s growth plan for healthcare.

Growth Plan for West Midlands’ Healthcare Sector Launches at Economic Summit The Health and Wealth Economic Summit at the NEC, Birmingham, which revealed why healthcare will be a key driver in wealth creation and economic growth in the West Midlands, saw the launch of a seven point growth plan. Developed by the West Midlands Academic Health Science Network (WMAHSN), the growth plan addresses the direct and indirect links between health and wealth and sets out the WMAHSN’s commitment to work to ensure that the region is viewed as a centre of healthcare excellence, to attract investment, a highly skilled workforce, research funding and to cluster innovative businesses. WMAHSN’s Commercial Director Tony Davis explained: “By bringing together the public and private sectors at the Economic Summit, we have been able to demonstrate how the growth plan can work to make a positive impact on the local economy. We’ve talked about the role of the NHS as an intelligent customer and delegates learned about the investment and innovation opportunities in the region. We also heard from companies that are using innovation to increase productivity, learnt how to use EU funding effectively and work with the LEPs to create 21st century healthcare jobs in the region". “The growth plan sets out how we will develop these to ensure that the region benefits, not just in terms of improved healthcare, but economically too.” In summary: 1. The WMAHSN will at all times promote the West Midlands as the place to invest and deliver life sciences and healthcare innovation. 2. The WMAHSN is committed to build on its existing strengths and partnerships between universities, the wider research base, industry and the NHS to establish a cohesive system of translational research and development. 3. The WMAHSN will be proactive in attracting, developing and rewarding the best talent in life sciences and healthcare. 4. The WMAHSN will work with the entire life sciences and healthcare innovation ecosystem to produce a regional population that is more productive and more economically active. 5. The WMAHSN is committed to working with both the NHS and local authorities in the adoption of innovation and best practice to improve productivity, in turn empowering them to deliver more health benefit for a given public resource. 6. The WMAHSN will endeavour to support the export of innovation, ideas and experience globally and will also work with UK industry in providing new global market opportunities. 7. The WMAHSN will facilitate the development of a more economically effective health system, with the WMAHSN supporting ‘lead customer’ activity within its membership. To read the full article click here.

WINTER 2014

Boilerhouse Innovators in Digital Delivery & Communications Want to work with marketing communications specialists who offer their clients a genuinely unique combination of expertise, services and access to channels? Then speak to Medilink member Boilerhouse who offer evidence based advice, and then design, develop and deliver programmes, initiatives, processes and tools. Their marketing communications services include copywriting, graphic design & branding, website design & development, video production, social media marketing and event production. They can also organise and produce live and digital events in partnership with their clients and other stakeholders. Unusually, they also provide a channel to market via TheInformationDaily and their associated database of senior public policy and decision-makers. TheInformationDaily provides news, features and comment on public policy topics of interest to senior decision-makers in the public sector, and to private sector executives in organisations working with and for the public sector. With nearly 14,000 people electing to get the Information Daily News Alert every weekday, it is widely followed in the offices of UK Government Ministers, MPs, MEPs, MSPs, MWAs and by many local authority officers and Councillors. Reality Bites –The National Healthcare Conversation, is a twice weekly, ten minute podcast of topical analysis between Ben Gowland, CEO, NHS Nene Clinical Commissioning Group and Joe Tibbetts, CEO, Boilerhouse and guests - listen in and join in the conversation. Click here to listen to Dr Joel Ratnasothy, Medical Director EMEA at Caradigm & Joe Tibbetts, publisher at HCi Daily unpick one of several ends of the Gordian Knot we know as "healthcare". You can also follow Ben Gowland’s weekly column – click here. AnswerTime Events - A new format in which five expert panellists, a chair-person and a studio audience of 25 people are invited to the InformationDaily studio in central Birmingham to discuss a topical issue. The event is video recorded with highlights published and distributed through TheInformationDaily. If you have a topic of interest and would like to explore having your representative on the panel, and marketing the resulting content get in touch with the Boilerhouse team. With feature articles, video interviews and product based videos you really can’t afford to miss it. Please contact Boilerhouse if you have an idea for editorial content for TheInformationDaily or if you would like to explore working with a “think and do” company who can assist you to improve stakeholder engagement, enhance brand impact, increase market penetration and geographical reach, improve reputation and grow.

WINTER 2014

HDTI Assist Stratford BusinessWoman to Transform the Lives of People with High Risk Foot Conditions An innovative product which is set to transform the lives of people with highrisk foot conditions has been launched by a Stratford businesswoman.

Guy Smallman from HDTI (left) trying out the Solesee product with Lisa Preston and David Smyth

Solesee, which is the brainchild of Lisa Preston, is a discrete, portable and easy-to-use mirror system which enables people with diabetes and other medical conditions to check the soles of their feet. Daily checks on the condition of the soles and heels of their feet means people will be able to spot any signs of skin damage or abrasions which could lead to more serious conditions such as ulcers. In England, there are 100 amputations each week among people with diabetes and diabetics are 30 times more likely to have an amputation than other patient groups. Lisa, who trained in specialist footwear while living in Australia for 20 years before returning to the UK, has designed Solesee with help from Medilink member Coventry University Health Design & Technology Institute (HDTI). She has also partnered with local entrepreneur David Smyth to develop the marketing and sales strategy around Solesee and help raise funds to launch the new product. She said: “The concept for Solesee was devised after years of fitting specialist footwear to people with poor foot health". “On a daily basis I see people who need to be inspecting the underneath of their feet every day, but cannot easily do so. Bending over and twisting your foot around to see underneath is no easy task. In many cases people just don’t realise how often they should be checking their feet and so only get them checked when they visit their foot health professional, which can sometimes be once a month which is just not often enough.” After researching products already available on the market, which mostly appeared to be variations to ‘mirrors on sticks’, which are difficult to hold and use, Lisa has devised a more effective, simple and portable product to encourage more regular foot checks. “I had to think of an easy to use, safe and discrete way to help people look at the bottom of their feet and, most importantly, to help educate them to take responsibility and look every day for any changes in their foot condition” Lisa said. Initial trials of Solesee were carried out with podiatrists and people with high risk feet that live in Stratford before feeding the results from these trials into the design and development of the product which is now in production. Guy Smallman, commercial development director at HDTI, met Lisa at a networking event in Stratford and he and his team helped turn her idea for Solesee into reality. “This could potentially save the National Health Service a great deal of money – looking after people with health problems resulting from not being able to check their feet regularly is extremely expensive,” he said. “The idea of prevention being better than cure is the best way to address it – and allow people to stay healthy and active and enjoy life – which is why this product will really help". “We secured funding from the European Regional Development Fund’s Assistive Technologies and Community Healthcare Development Project to produce initial concept designs from which we produced a prototype. Following this, we sourced a manufacturer to make an initial batch of 20 for the focus group to assess. With Lisa’s wealth of knowledge and expertise in this area and, together with the marketing experience that David brings, this has a great chance of being a commercial success.”

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2014 has again, for the 12th year running, given us the opportunity to work with innovative businesses operating in the Healthcare Technology and Life Sciences Sector.

From the Team here at Medilink WM, may we wish you all a

Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous 2015! Help us to support you by keeping us in the loop! The more we know about your business aims and achievements the better we can support you, by: - Identifying & highlighting relevant funding opportunities - Identifying & highlighting potential business opportunities - Identifying collaboration opportunities - Highlighting relevant conferences, exhibitions and networking opportunities - Keeping you up to date with market intelligence

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