Cheers for 20 years: Celebrating NIHR research and innovation across the South West

Researchers, healthcare professionals, patients and public contributors gathered at the Bristol Beacon on 22 September to celebrate 20 years of the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), recognising the impact health and care research has had across the South West and beyond. Around 130 people from 80 organisations attended the anniversary event, which showcased research breakthroughs, collaborations and innovations that have improved lives over the past two decades.

Hosted by the NIHR South West Central Regional Research Delivery Network, the event brought together representatives from universities, NHS organisations, research infrastructure and community partners. Guests heard from keynote speaker Dr Gail Marzetti, Director of Science, Research and Evidence at the Department of Health and Social Care and NIHR Deputy CEO, who reflected on the NIHR’s contribution to improving health and strengthening the UK’s research landscape over the last 20 years.

The programme explored the NIHR’s four pillars of impact, investment, innovation and inclusion through a series of presentations showcasing research taking place across the region. Among the speakers was James Dodd, Professor of Respiratory Medicine at the University of Bristol, who highlighted findings from the AERATOR study. AERATOR challenged long-held assumptions about so-called ‘aerosol generating procedures’ and went on to influence changes to infection control guidelines in Scotland.

Professor Dodd’s work reflects the type of patient-focused, practice-changing research supported by the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre: Bristol, which helps researchers work alongside NHS partners to translate scientific discoveries into improvements in patient care. As a major centre for translational research in the region, the BRC supports studies that address some of the most pressing health challenges facing the NHS and patients.

Professor Dodd said:

“This AERATOR study is a powerful example of how collaboration and innovation can deliver meaningful improvements for patients and healthcare services. As we celebrate 20 years of the NIHR, it highlights the vital role that research partnerships in the South West play in generating evidence that changes practice and improves care.”

The event also featured presentations on topics including eczema treatment, prostate cancer screening, domestic abuse research, reducing health inequalities and improving access to healthcare for underserved communities. A closing panel of public contributors shared their experiences of participating in research and discussed the importance of meaningful public involvement in shaping future studies.

The anniversary celebration highlighted not only the achievements of the last 20 years but also the strength of collaboration across the South West. By bringing together researchers, clinicians, patients and community partners, the event demonstrated how NIHR infrastructure such as the Bristol BRC continues to create opportunities for innovative research that can improve health and care for people across the region and beyond.