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Medilink West Midlands
With over 15 years of industry knowledge, Medilink WM brings together the NHS, academia and industry, helping members to establish, develop and grow.
Medilink West Midlands
With over 15 years of industry knowledge, Medilink WM brings together the NHS, academia, and industry, helping members to establish, develop and grow.
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Industry news
Keep up to date with the cutting edge of the medical sector
Launch of a new West Midlands Science Skills Group
Medilink Midlands are working with SIP to draw an industry-focused and driven program to look at the current and future specific training and skill requirements for and to support the Life Science health and MedTech industry sector and we would welcome your input. Please join us on 22 April (10.30 am – 12.00 pm) to learn more […]
West Midlands manufacturer launching Optec®sustainable biomaterial face shield system
Tecman Advanced Healthcare Products is once more leading the field in the development of high-quality, British-made PPE with Optec® – a new biomaterial reusable face shield system designed to help the NHS reach it’s carbon emission reduction targets. At the start of Covid-19, the urgent need for safe and comfortable PPE to protect frontline healthcare […]
Diagnostic technology company secures £800k for point of care diagnostics platform
Former Medilink member, Birmingham-based Linear Diagnostics Ltd has secured £800,000 from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF) and other investors in the company’s second round of funding, which will enable the company to commence the development of the hardware platform for its tests. The finance will facilitate the ongoing development of the company’s high-speed platform technology for point of […]
Endless monitoring applications at Lonza Houston’s cell & gene therapy facility
World’s largest cell and gene therapy manufacturing plant expand the use of Vaisala viewLinc Monitoring System as operations grow. Swiss drug manufacturer Lonza Ltd. is a leading global supplier of contract manufacturing services to pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Lonza combines technological innovation with world-class manufacturing and process excellence to provide services in pharma, biotech, nutrition and […]
App designed to help reduce hospital admissions in Midlands
A digital remote care solution including a mobile phone app is being used by Dudley CCG to help improve the care of patients at home with COVID. The app developed by Norwegian medical software company, Dignio, is helping patients stay at home safely and so avoid unnecessary admissions to hospital as well as alerting clinical […]
Binding Site listed in The Sunday Times International Track – Ones to Recognise
On Sunday 21st February, Binding Site was one of only five businesses to be listed in the Sunday Times, International Track Ones to Recognise. The shortlist, compiled by Fast Track and HSBC UK, highlights companies from a cross-section of industries that deserve special recognition for their international growth. For Binding Site, this equated to 93 […]
Three high-profile appointees heighten ambition for Birmingham Health Partners
The second city’s University-NHS partnership Birmingham Health Partners (BHP) has made three high-profile appointments to its leadership board – announcing Professor Sir Robert Lechler and Dame Yve Buckland as Non-Executive Directors and former Chairman of NHS Improvement and Deputy Chairman of NHS England, Ed Smith, as independent Chair. BHP is a strategic alliance which aims […]
Adjusting to EU Trading Post-Brexit
The Office for Life Sciences and the Department for Health and Social Care are keen to speak to businesses about adjusting to the new trading relationship with the EU. If you are a business which trades with the EU, and are happy to talk to Government about how you are adjusting post-Brexit, click here to email us.
First virtual open day for Black Country & Marches Institute of Technology’s
Black Country & Marches Institute of Technology are delighted to be hosting our first virtual open event on Saturday 6th March (10am – 2pm). Find out more about the Black Country & Marches Institute of Technology, opening this September, from the comfort of your own home. What happens on the day? The virtual day will […]
Latest Office for Life Sciences Bulletin – including £20 million SME Brexit Support Fund
The Office for Life Sciences (OLS) is a joint unit between the Department of Health & Social Care (DHSC) and the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS). Medilink shares this bulletin with its members and networks to provide the life sciences sector with the latest news and guidance as government implements the UK-EU Trade […]
Shortlist announced for Meridian Celebration of Innovation Awards
The shortlist has been announced for the fifth annual Meridian Celebration of Innovation Awards, celebrating healthcare innovation in the West Midlands. Since its launch in 2015, the programme has been celebrating individuals and organisations that are revolutionising healthcare across the region with new ideas, technologies, and initiatives. This year, shortlisted entries have been selected for […]
ISO specialists, IMSM join Medilink membership
Medilink Midlands welcomes ISO specialists IMSM to its membership, with over 25+ years experience and over 15,000 successful implementations for standards ranging from Medical Device to Laboratories. In addition to ISO 9001:2015 & ISO 13485:2016 there are multiple standards available that can boost productivity and security, mitigate risk and reduce waste in your organisation. Below […]
B2B Opportunity – Leading manufacturer of air purification products seeking importer/distributor
Established Finnish Air Purification company seeks a UK-based distributor/importer with a proven track record to sell a suite of innovative air purification products within a variety of industries including public and private healthcare. Established and based in Finland, this company have produced an innovative suite of standalone Air Purification products aimed at a wide array […]
HeartFlow: transforming the way coronary heart disease is diagnosed and treated
With the support of all 15 AHSNs, an innovative non-invasive solution for diagnosing coronary heart disease is now being used by 50+ hospitals across England. The HeartFlow Fractional Flow Reserve CT (FFRCT) Analysis is the first non-invasive diagnostic tool that aids clinicians in determining, vessel by vessel, both the extent of an artery’s narrowing and the […]
Opportunity to join the World’s largest Life Sciences exhibition
EXHIBIT AT THE WORLD’S LARGEST HEALTHCARE & LIFE SCIENCES EVENT 16 – 19 NOVEMBER 2020, DÜSSELDORF, GERMANY Medilink UK are continuing to expand their presence at Medica 2020 with a larger UK pavilion. The increase in space and presence at the World’s largest healthcare & life sciences exhibition is a direct result of the speed at which the 2019 pavilion sold out. […]
Recyclable visor to fight COVID-19 receives CE mark
CE certification for manKIND visor as manufacturing collective targets 100,000 sales A group of nine manufacturers, who developed a new recyclable visor to be used in the fight against Covid-19, is celebrating a major milestone in style by securing CE certification for the product. The Manufacturing Assembly Network (MAN), which comprises eight sub-contract specialists and […]
Fully funded – Digital Innovation for Manufacturing programme with WMG
The WMG SME Group is a dedicated team and very eager to work with you. Utilising this fully-funded programme, they aim to overcome your manufacturing and supply chain challenges. Part of the University of Warwick, we have the latest technologies and equipment. Our world class technicians, industry experts and scientists can bring new ideas to life, improve efficiency and […]
Midlands region delivering £90m of COVID research to support the nation’s fight against COVID-19
A new report – Mobilising Research Excellence in the Midlands to Tackle COVID-19 – published today (Friday, January 15 2021) reveals that the Midlands has moved swiftly to apply its wealth of capability in its hospitals, universities and businesses to deliver £90m of research to support regional, national and global efforts to tackle the Coronavirus […]
Static Systems Group welcomes Halma as its new owner
Static Systems Group is delighted to announce that it has been acquired by Halma, a FTSE 100 global group of life-saving technology companies. Halma, headquartered in the UK, is driven by a clear purpose to grow a safer, cleaner, healthier future for everyone, every day which is highly aligned with Static Systems’ values, strategy and […]
New COVID-19 RNA test gives accurate results within minutes
University of Birmingham researchers have invented a COVID-19 test that reduces testing time from 30 minutes to under five, and delivers accurate results. The method is described in a preprint paper (yet to be peer-reviewed) published on MedRxiv, where the researchers also demonstrate the rapidity and sensitivity of their method using patient sample RNA provided by […]
Entries now open for Meridian Celebration of Innovation Awards
Today, the West Midlands Academic Health Science Network is proud to announce the return of the prestigious Meridian Celebration of Innovation Awards, with entries now open. Since its launch in 2015, the awards programme has been celebrating the individuals and organisations that are revolutionising healthcare in the West Midlands with new ideas, technologies, and initiatives. […]
B2B Opportunity – Healthcare Distributors required for infection prevention hand sanitisers
Big Ask#3 – Opp – 00018 Healthcare Distributors required for infection prevention hand sanitisers. This established West Midlands based medical device and disinfectant manufacturer have two successful hand hygiene products available for distribution. Two formulations are available, a hand rub (InSpec) HR, 80% Ethanol and a hand gel (InSpec HG) 85% Ethanol. The hand rub […]
Calling all Medtech businesses – applications open
BetaDen – Worcestershire’s commercial technology accelerator based at Malvern Hills Science Park – has opened applications for its fourth cohort of businesses, including those from the MedTech community. Early-stage and established technology businesses carrying out focussed R&D can apply to join the nine-month accelerator in March 2021 where they will benefit from a refreshed programme […]
Magnetic brain waves to detect injury and disease
Scientists at the University of Birmingham have developed a new sensor to measure weak magnetic signals in the brain, which has the potential to increase understanding of connectivity in the brain, and detect signs of traumatic brain injury, dementia and schizophrenia. Magnetic signals in the brain are measured by magnetoencephalography (MEG). They are easier to […]
UoB researchers design a new approach to treating cancers and other diseases
A new approach to treating cancers and other diseases that uses a mechanically interlocked molecule as a ‘magic bullet’ has been designed by researchers at the University of Birmingham. Called rotaxanes, the molecules are tiny nanoscale structures that resemble a dumbbell with a ring trapped around the central post. Scientists have been experimenting with rotaxanes […]
Medilink member develop Anti-COVID-19 nasal spray ‘ready for use in humans’
A nasal spray that can provide effective protection against the COVID-19 virus has been developed by researchers at the University of Birmingham, using materials already cleared for use in humans. A team in the University’s Healthcare Technologies Institute formulated the spray using compounds already widely approved by regulatory bodies in the UK, Europe and the […]
Investigation into government procurement during the COVID-19 pandemic
Today the National Audit Office (NAO) reports a lack of transparency and adequate documentation of some key decisions, such as why particular suppliers were chosen or how government identified and managed potential conflicts of interest, in the awarding of some contracts while government was procuring large volumes of goods and services at high speed to […]
Latest Office for Life Sciences Bulletin
The Office for Life Sciences (OLS) is a joint unit between the Department of Health & Social Care (DHSC) and the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS). Medilink shares this bulletin with its members and networks to keep the life sciences sector up to date on the latest guidance as we approach the end of […]
Midlands manufacturers complain they are being locked out of NHS PPE contracts
A consortium of Midlands businesses has slammed the UK Government for providing what it has labelled ‘inadequate and inappropriate’ Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) sourced from abroad during the Coronavirus crisis and is calling for Ministers to stop overlooking UK manufacturers that have both the capacity and capability to produce vital equipment. The Midlands PPE Collective […]
Meridian awarded Gold Accreditation by ideasUK
The West Midlands Academic Health Science Network’s Meridian Innovation Exchange platform has received ideasUK gold accreditation for the third year running. Despite a challenging year for the health and life sciences sector due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are proud to have kept our standards high and improved upon last year’s scores. The accreditation process […]
NHS Social Care Digital Programme
What if you could use predictive analytics to create better strategies for the way care services are provided? That is the question that PredictX, Midlands and Lancashire Commissioning Support Unit (CSU), and the City of Wolverhampton Council sought to answer through their NHS Social Care Digital Programme. Together with the funding and support of NHS […]
WMAHSN innovation job opportunity announced
Innovation Exchange Co-ordinator This is an exciting opportunity to support innovators across industry, healthcare and academia within the West Midlands. The West Midlands Academic Health Science Network (WMAHSN); hosted by UHB, is one of 15 AHSNs across England. We work in partnership with NHS trusts, SMEs, care homes and universities to spread innovations at scale […]
Midlands Manufacturer Awarded EN 13795 For UK Made PPE
Staff and Turnover growth following Wearwell’s Investment and achievement in producing certified PPE Gowns Tamworth based Wearwell (UK) Ltd, a UK manufacturer of workwear and PPE, has become one of the first manufacturers in the country to be awarded EN 13795 certification, alongside the CE mark, for its UK made disposable surgical gown. Approached via Medilink […]
Equality and diversity group for Medilink member Forresters
A leading firm of patent and trade mark attorneys is building on its reputation for boosting diversity in its industry. Forresters has created an Equality and Diversity Group with the aim of delivering a culture where everyone can thrive and feel relaxed, regardless of their background. Varinderpal Gosal recently joined the firm as marketing executive […]
New mouth spray could benefit patients with painful genetic skin condition
A new spray for treating severely painful blisters, mouth ulceration and oral scarring in patients with a rare genetic skin condition is being developed by researchers at the University of Birmingham. The spray is designed for patients with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a condition that causes the skin to blister and tear at the slightest touch. […]
Patients Set To Benefit From Faster Drug Development As 3P’s Innovative R1000 Robotic Capsule Filler Goes Live At Arcinova
Arcinova, a multi-service Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisation (CDMO) based in Alnwick, Northumberland, has recently taken delivery and commissioned the award winning R1000 Robotic Capsule Filler from life-sciences automation company 3P innovation, as part of the ‘Fill-Inova’ project. The R1000 includes 3P’s award-winning, patented Fill2Weight micro-dosing technology, which directly supports the optimisation of drug substance through direct filling into capsules. Thanks to its […]
West Midlands college partners global leader, – amidst huge demand for medical engineers
Dudley College of Technology’s partnership with Avensys UK Ltd – working in partnership to deliver high quality, industry-led medical engineering apprenticeships. Medilink WM member Dudley College of Technology and Avensys UK Limited have forged an exciting new partnership, which will see the development of a niche curriculum in medical engineering. Avensys UK Limited currently provide, […]
ABHI calls on Medilink members to support ‘COVID Impact on HealthTech’ survey
ABHI has recently outlined the inevitable consequences that the surge in coronavirus cases will have on the levels of NHS elective activity. The impact of this on our industry is mixed and by no means uniform. Whilst ABHI continues to advocate for the positives it has seen in innovation adoption to be captured, it maintains that parts of our sector will once […]
Latest guidance & information from the Office for Life Sciences (OLS)
The Office for Life Sciences (OLS) is a joint unit between the Department of Health & Social Care (DHSC) and Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS). Medilink shares this bulletin with its members and networks, aimed to keep the life sciences sector up to date on the latest guidance whilst the UK is […]
B2B Opportunity – Novel versatile central line infection reducing device seeks a commercial negotiator/partner or licencing deal.
Big Ask#3 – Opp – 00017 Novel versatile central line infection reducing device seeks a commercial negotiator/partner or licencing deal. Resuscitation and intensive care of critically ill patients is not possible without the use of intravascular central venous catheters with 250,000 procedures done in the USA alone. Unfortunately, central line infections are one of the […]
What could a £7,500 Innovation Grant do for your business?
MedTech Navigator – Innovation Grants Next Deadline for applications: 27th November 2020 – 12 Noon What could a £7,500 Innovation Grant do for your business? Having access to the right knowledge and expertise is an essential part of successfully developing and commercialising new products and services for the health and care market. Key stakeholders need to […]
New Device for Detecting Traumatic Brain Injury ‘On the Spot’
A method for detecting traumatic brain injury at the point of care has been developed by scientists at the University of Birmingham. Using chemical biomarkers released by the brain immediately after a head injury occurs, researchers are able to pinpoint when patients need urgent medical attention. This saves time in delivering vital treatment and avoids […]
Cutting-edge treatments to be fast-tracked to patients through international collaborations
The UK will join the USA, Canada, Australia, Switzerland, Singapore and Brazil to speed up the approval of innovative medicines. International regulators will work together to authorise promising treatments after the EU transition period Medicines will include cancer treatments NHS patients could have quicker access to the next generation of cutting-edge treatments thanks to the […]
B2B Opportunity – Developer of a new medical grade device, the Mouth Protector Guard, seeking UK Manufacturer / Distributor
Big Ask#3 – Opp – 00016 Developer of a new medical grade device, the Mouth Protector Guard, seeking UK Manufacturer / Distributor. A West Midlands based company have designed and developed a new patented medical grade device called The Mouth Protector Guard (MPG). This “single use” mouth/face protector is used to assist with preventing healthcare […]
MedilinkWM B2B Opportunities Service sees Hospital Direct (Marketing) sign an Exclusive Distributor Agreement for their innovative Infection Control Solution
The CiFi Torch is one of the most powerful high-quality LED forensic light sources currently available on the global market. Standing for ‘Cleaning Inspection Forensic Investigation Torch’, the product can locate traces not visible to the naked eye, even in bright light ambient conditions. Developed by CopperTree Forensics, in just 2 years CopperTree have changed the landscape […]
ANOTHER YEAR OF CELEBRATION AT THE VIRTUAL MEDILINK UK HEALTHCARE BUSINESS AWARDS
Over 190 individuals from across the Healthcare and Life Sciences sector came together online, on Thursday 8 October to celebrate success at the Medilink UK National Awards. The awards recognised a multitude of achievements and outstanding contributions to the Life Sciences industry, and five companies from across the country were crowned as national winners. Winning […]
Career opportunties at Midlands Engine
The Midlands hosts a wealth of academic, industrial and clinical strengths, from healthcare technologies (e.g. MedTech, health data and imaging), through disease/lifestyle-driven illness (e.g. respiratory, cardiovascular, diabetes, renal and gastrointestinal) to rehabilitation and clinical trials. Midlands Engine Health will draw upon this expertise, in combination with the drive and focus of Midlands Engine, to support […]
AHSN Virtual Health & Care Week launches to promote digital innovation across the Midlands
Bookings are now open for Midlands Digital Health and Care Week which will take place 12-16 October. Organised by the West Midlands and East Midlands Academic Health Science Networks (AHSN), the event is a weeklong series of short, virtual sessions showcasing digital transformation projects from across the Midlands. The sessions are open to NHS, Social […]
Creavo Medical Technologies appoints Martin Frost as Chairman
Medilink member, Creavo Medical Technologies Ltd (Creavo), the medical device company developing innovative diagnostics techniques, has announced that it has appointed Martin Frost as Chairman of the Board of Directors. In this role, Martin will drive Creavo’s fundraising plans, and guide its strategy to scale the business and commercialise its diagnostic technologies. Creavo has designed […]
Medilink WM Patron & member benefit from ‘virtual’ introduction
Medilink member DHC Innovations Ltd and patron Birmingham City University (BCU) new venture after introductions at Medilink WM virtual coffee morning. Staffordshire based family run DHC Innovations Ltd, inventors of the award-winning Optishield, were looking to update and enhance their website and social media platforms. Through Medilink introductions, DHC Innovations Ltd decided to apply for BCU’s […]
Static Systems Group launches two integrated attack alarm solutions
Medilink WM member Static Systems Group has developed two attack alarm solutions that use exactly the same technology platform as SSG’s nurse call system already embedded in many UK acute hospitals , allowing existing infrastructure, mobile, and indicating devices to be multi-purposed.
Birmingham City University’s £170,000 project to boost nursing in Zambia
Medilink patron Birmingham City Univerity (BCU) has been awarded £173,000 from a new government package, funding projects across the globe to support communities hit by the coronavirus. The money awarded will be used to boost trauma and emergency nursing in Zambia.
Funding boost for AI-based epilepsy monitoring
Today, Medilink member the University of Birmingham shares the amazing news, its spinout company Neuronostics has been awarded £720,000 of government funding to fund the development of its first prototype clinical platform – developing the software that will bring BioEP technology safely and securely into the clinic.
New Birmingham hospital opens to provide essential rehabilitation support for patients
The West Midlands Academic Science Network (WMAHSN) has been collaborating with Circle Health Rehabilitation and BMI Healthcare during the pandemic, delivering a series of events on the Future of Rehabilitation, specifically focused on patients recovering from COVID-19 and the ongoing health issues that the virus can result in.
Latest guidance & information from the Office for Life Sciences (OLS)
This week's OLS Bulletin includes MHRA's published, first formal regulatory guidance on the post-transition period. This included guidance on Clinical trials, Medical Devices, Licensing, Importing and exporting, IT systems, Pharmacovigilance, and Paediatrics
Applications for the NHS Innovation Accelerator are now open!
The NHS Innovation Accelerator (NIA) – an NHS England initiative supported by England’s 15 Academic Health Science Networks (AHSNs) and hosted at UCLPartners – has launched its call for applications representing high impact, evidence-based innovations.
Regional collaboration delivers quality focussed Covid-19 test kit in record time
Medilink West Midlands patron, The Binding Site has launched a new test to detect COVID-19 antibodies in people with recent exposure, who are asymptomatic, or have mild symptoms. With the focus on mild non-hospitalised patient blood samples, the SARS-CoV-2 Antibody ELISA assay was developed in partnership with the University of Birmingham’s Clinical Immunology Service with the initial […]
Small and Medium-Sized (SME) Enterprise Innovation Fund
The West Midlands Academic Health Science Network (WMAHSN) is working closely with Mercia Asset Management (MAM); a leading investment business, to help build and support healthcare businesses across the West Midlands (WM). The SME Innovation Fund will provide investment as well as links to the health and care system and academic communities. In doing so […]
B2B Opportunity – Manufacture and Packaging of Lipreading and hearing aid transparent face masks for the NHS and Care sector required
Manufacture required for the production of a transparent Face Mask for the NHS and Care sector to enable the deaf, hard of hearing, those with additional needs to feel less isolated by allowing them to easily communicate with carers and clinicians that are wearing PPE by allowing the mouth to be seen.
Bright Future for Life Sciences in the Midlands
The amalgamation of Medilink East and West Midlands has been given the seal of approval in a move which will serve the best interests of the life sciences sector in the Midlands.
This unification, that sees Medilink East and West Midlands operate under a single group company, Medilink Midlands, was unanimously endorsed, in principle, by the Boards of both organisations in June and is the culmination of a strategic alignment that has been developing over the last 6 years.
B2B Opportunity – SME with Innovative ecological and sustainable Patient Care product looking to licence / Sell their IP to a suitable business
Innovative reusable, ecological and sustainable bedding product for incontinence for the home and care market with great potential for further design and development for additional uses is seeking a reputable business to licence or sell the IP and manufacture of the product too.
Birmingham spinout announces collaboration and licence agreement to develop precision cancer treatments
Established in 2014 by Cancer Research Technologies and Medilink member, the University of Birmingham, Birmingham spinout Revitope Oncology Inc has announced a research collaboration and license agreement with leading Chinese biopharmaceutical company Junshi Biosciences to develop precision cancer therapies that harness the body’s immune response to kill cancer cells while leaving healthy body tissues untouched.
B2B Opportunity – Established Dental Supply business seeks sub-distributors for new disruptive technology.
The UK Dental Tissue Regeneration sector is dominated by two types of technology. This opportunity presents alternatives for both groups to include ‘market-disruptive’ delivery systems and ‘new-for-dental’ claims supported by extensive training.
B2B Opportunity – Electronics company required to produce geospatial sensor with output
An electronic device is required to manufactured that can report on geospatial position, with good to excellent battery duration with a signal output to operate another device. The unit should be as small as possible. If a data logger could be included this could be an advantage.
THE BIG ASK #3 – B2B BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
The B2B COVID Business Opportunities is the third in the Medilink Midlands 'Big Ask' series of ‘Here to Help’ business support services. Allowing us to continue supporting the needs of the region, share opportunities to maximise advantages for businesses, and where appropriate through collaborative working.
Mentors needed to support ‘next generation’ health-related innovators
Broadening Horizons - programme aimed to support early-career researchers with their professional development by connecting mentees from academic institutions with mentors from industry. The programme will also create networking opportunities via an online platform and both live and digital events.
B2B Opportunity – PPE Visor Packaging Service and Distribution (Possible Manufacture) Required
A West Midlands Company has successfully designed and manufactured a certified PPE visor and due to a significant rise in orders, it would like to find a regional business to take on its packing and distribution.
B2B Opportunity – PPE Visor design and production Tooling available for acquisition
A Midlands Design consultancy has designed and produced injection moulding tooling for a very successful PPE Visor. Due to an increase in work, it can no longer continue with production and therefore they would like to offer this to a suitable organisation that would like to take this product on.
B2B Opportunity – Distributor/Promotional Merchandiser required for innovative anti-microbial hand-held device.
Distributor / Promotional Merchandiser is required for the development of B2B sales of an innovative anti-microbial hand-held device called the KeepSafe. We are in search of a distributor to list and distribute/sell a handheld device made with anti-microbial copper to a B2B network to help businesses get their employees back to work more safely, and help them exist between their homes and places of work. Keen to find a single partner for this project so a greater relationship can be made.
Medilink West Midlands connects industry and the NHS to produce surgical gowns
Medilink West Midlands, the industry gateway for the West Midlands Academic Health Science Network, has been busy sourcing local manufacturers to produce high-quality surgical gowns for the regions NHS trusts. With work now underway, the region will benefit from up to 25,000 extra surgical gowns being produced a week.
Medilink helps forge new partnerships in response to the Covid crisis
The West Midlands Academic Health Science Network (WMAHSN) and the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) have joined forces to help support the region’s Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) supply during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Call for solutions to support socially distanced assessments
West Midlands Academic Health Science Network (WMAHSN) Industry Gateway is looking for technologies or processes to allow Community Occupational Therapists to assess residents/their homes for disability adaptations or specialist equipment with less physical contact.
New toolkit for healthcare staff
A toolkit for healthcare staff has been published by the National Tracheostomy Safety Project (NTSP) in collaboration with the AHSN Network and the National Patient Safety Improvement Programmes in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, to support healthcare staff who are looking after patients with tracheostomies.
West Mercia Rural 5G Test Bed – Industry Call for Life Sciences Sector Innovators
The aim of this campaign is to identify 5G industry partners to join the West Mercia 5G consortium and work with the team to establish how 5G enabled technology can improve health and social care delivery across Shropshire and Worcestershire. The West Mercia 5G Test Bed will run for 12-18 months. The aim is for […]
New Dates For Med-Tech Innovation Expo
Rapid News Group has announced the decision to postpone Med-Tech Innovation Expo, the UK’s flagship event for the medical device industry to 2021.
Originally re-scheduled for 29 – 30 September 2020, the event will now take place from 29 – 30 June 2021. The venue for the event, the NEC, Birmingham, UK is unchanged.
Current challenges in regulatory science in healthcare survey
On behalf of the University of Birmingham we would like to invite you to take part in a survey to identify current challenges in regulatory science in healthcare. The aim of the survey is to identify strategic areas for the development of regulatory standards, establish current and future training needs and identify the infrastructure required to support this.
Birmingham experts deliver remote training to make maternity triage safer during COVID-19
BSOTS is currently used in 15 maternity units in the UK, with over 20 maternity trained in the last six months and in the process of implementation. More widespread implementation is currently being supported by MidTECH Innovations (the NHS Innovation Hub for the West Midlands), the Academic Health Science Networks in the West Midlands, East Midlands and UCL Partners.
Bounce Back Loan Scheme open for applications
The Bounce Back Loan (BBL) Scheme is now open for applications.
Delivered by lenders accredited by the British Business Bank for this scheme, Bounce Back Loans target small and micro businesses in all sectors, providing loans from £2k up to 25% of the business’ turnover with a maximum loan of £50k.
Launch of new personal handheld device to help limit the spread of Covid-19
Medilink West Midlands is working with Sylatech, a UK based engineering company, on behalf of the West Midlands Combined Authority. Sylatech has launched a personal handheld device called the KeepSafe, designed to enable users to avoid touching handles, buttons, or grabbing items unnecessarily.
Static Systems Group plays its part in the fight against COVID-19
Medilink WM member Static Systems Group (SSG) are playing their part in the fight against COVID-19. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting increase in demand for its nurse call systems, healthcare communications and bedhead services specialist, SSG, has boosted production capacity at its manufacturing base near Wolverhampton in the West Midlands, as well as investing in the rapid development of an off-the-shelf ‘wired’ nurse call solution to make available alongside its ‘wireless’ solution.
Chartered Institute of Ergonomics & Human Factors (CIEHF) COVID-19 website
The pandemic has brought human factors issues to prominence. The Chartered Institute of Ergonomics & Human Factors (CIEHF) and its members are responding rapidly to current challenges by providing expert guidance and help wherever it’s needed most. Its dedicated COVID-19 website gives details and links to new guidance documents developed and published by CIEHF and […]
Opportunity 9.2 – Lab requirements
Additional lab capacity including RNA extraction and PCR equipment that uses open source consumables (i.e. those that can be used on a variety of equipment) and should meet the following criteria: Sample reception area for accepting and logging samples adhering to national infection control procedures; Sample tracking capability (e.g. barcoding) for the end to end […]
Opportunity 9.1d – Novel Testing Solutions required #4 – RNA extraction: new methods
RNA extraction capacities are currently challenged even with automated platforms. New methods of extracting viral RNA or enabling viral detection without an extraction step would help remove this bottleneck, as long as they are “ready to go” and can be integrated into existing or optimised PCR testing chains.
Opportunity 9.1b – Novel Testing Solutions required – Desktop PCR equipment for point of care testing
COVID-19 Novel Testing Solutions required - Desktop PCR equipment for point of care testing. The Department of Health & Social Care, BIA, BIVDA and The Royal College of Pathologists are seeking new and novel solutions with several challenges currently open.
Opportunity 9.1a – Novel Testing Solutions required – Dry swabs for use in virus detection
Novel Testing Solutions required - Dry swabs for use in virus detection. The Department of Health & Social Care, BIA, BIVDA and The Royal College of Pathologists are seeking new and novel solutions to help deliver 100,000 COVID-19 tests a day by the end of April.
Big Ask Questionnaire – West Midlands COVID-19 & Healthcare Industry Support
These are unprecedented times and Medilink WM is seeing multiple requests, business opportunities, offers of help and new solutions and ideas. To ensure we fulfill all requests, we ask you to complete our 'Big Ask' Questionnaire.
Business-led innovation in response to global disruption (de minimis) to facilitate Society or Industries need during the Covid-19 Crisis
Innovate UK, as part of UK Research and Innovation, will invest up to £20 million in innovation projects. The aim of this competition is to support UK businesses to focus on emerging or increasing needs of society and industries during and following the Covid-19 pandemic.
EIT Health UKI – Call for ‘Rapid Response’ projects to address COVID-19
EIT Health has opened a “Rapid Response” request for proposals from EIT Health Partners in collaboration with other partners, to support immediate response to the COVID-19 pandemic. New projects or extensions of an existing project must be implemented rapidly, with full spending and completion taking place in 2020. Proposed activities must create short-term impact that […]
Free guide – Managing the wellbeing and productivity of your remote team
With social distancing and self-isolation becoming increasingly important with the recent spread of Covid-19, more and more businesses are shifting to remote working. Medilink WM member Evolyst Ltd, Lumien has produced a free to access guide for employee well being and managing a remote team.
Remote Working Solution Rapidly Deployed on Any Device, Anywhere, Anytime
Following government guidance and instructions, the nation is remote working wherever possible, to reduce the spread of Covid-19, therefore having the right technology is critical to a business, whether public or private sector.
West Midlands companies answer the UK government’s call to supply ventilator’s to the NHS
On 16th March the UK Government made an urgent call to businesses to help supply ventilators and ventilator components across the UK as part of it’s response to COVID-19 and the shortage of supplies within the NHS. Whilst others have been talking, West Midlands based companies have been busy in the background to answer the UK […]
COVID-19 genome sequencing alliance formed with support from Birmingham University
Medilink WM member the University of Birmingham part of the £20m investment 'COG-UK' - the new nationwide consortium, COVID-19 Genomics UK Consortium.
Investment of £20m has enabled the formation of a new nationwide consortium to map the spread and evolution of COVID-19 through whole-genome sequencing.
Birmingham University makes hand sanitiser to support the regions frontline staff
Medilink West Midlands is proud to share the following news article from Birmingham Health Partners, detailing how Medilink member University Of Birmingham is responding to the urgent shortage of hand sanitiser.
Technicians and lab facilities at BHP founder member the University of Birmingham have been redeployed to respond to an urgent shortage of hand sanitiser needed by frontline social care workers to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus.
Latest Bulletin from Office For Life Sciences – 27 March
Medilink West Midlands would like to share with you the latest Office for Life Sciences Bulletin. Providing the Lifesciences community up to date guidance whilst the UK is in the transition period and during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, providing important information from the Government to help our members and networks. Including COVID-19 key contacts Workforce Updates Business […]
New Dates for Med-Tech Innovation Expo 29-30 September 2020
With global concern regarding the Coronavirus outbreak (COVID-19) escalating, and after monitoring the situation closely over the last few weeks and consulting with exhibitors and partners Rapid News Group have determined that it is in the best interest of all parties to postpone their Med-Tech Innovation Expo, scheduled for April 1-2 to September.
Latest update from the Office for Life Sciences (OLS)
Welcome to the latest Office for Life Sciences bulletin, aimed at keeping the life sciences sector up to date on the latest guidance. The Office for Life Sciences (OLS) is a joint unit between the Department of Health & Social Care (DHSC) and Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS). 20.02.20 Office for Life Sciences Bulletin. If […]
Q&A: Device Manufacturers’ FAQs on the EU’s Medical Device Regulation (MDR)
The European Union’s Medical Device Regulation (MDR) and In Vitro Diagnostic Regulation (IVDR) will replace the Medical Device Directive (MDD) and In Vitro Diagnostic Directive (IVDD) beginning with the MDR that takes effect May 26, 2020.
West Midlands businesses celebrate at Medilink WM Business Awards
An evening of celebration for West Midlands businesses.
The life sciences, medical and health care community all came together to attend the Medilink WM Business Awards which took place at The Burlington Hotel, Birmingham to recognise the regions success and innovative solutions, supporting the health sector.
Medilink UK appoints new CEO
Medilink UK, the largest representative body for the Health Technology sector in the UK, has appointed Mr Kevin Kiely as its CEO.
Kevin was co-founder of the Medilink model over twenty five years ago, which for the first time brought together in a formal regional association, the Health Technology and related Life Science industry, the NHS and universities, to drive innovation across the sector. Kevin will retain his position of CEO, Medilink North of England.
Coventry University’s Institute of Coding wins Innovation in Education Award
Coventry University’s Institute of Coding has been recognised at the West Midlands Tech Awards, which celebrates the best of the technology and digital industries throughout the West Midlands. The Innovation in Education Award celebrates organisations using cutting edge digital approaches to enhance and revolutionise the learning experience. Coventry University’s Institute of Coding is part of […]
West Midlands AHSN launches Digital Health and Skills Lab
The West Midlands Academic Health Science Network (WMAHSN) has launched a Digital Health and Skills Lab. Located within the Serendip Digital Health Quarter in Birmingham, the lab provides a space for the co-design of digital innovations, bringing together health tech businesses, clinicians and patients to develop and test solutions. It is designed to support the WMAHSN’s mission to increase investment in West Midlands life sciences, and to improve the health and wellbeing of people in the region.
AF Aware Week: Thinking Detect, Protect and Perfect
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common heart condition that causes an irregular and often abnormally fast heart rate. It is estimated 26,500 people across the West Midlands currently have undetected AF or aren’t receiving optimal treatment. If left untreated, AF can increase the risk of stroke by around four to five times.
The AHSN Network bridges the gap for NHS Innovators
On 30 January, the AHSN Network will hold its Bridging the Gap event aimed towards Health-Tech developers and companies looking to get their innovations into the NHS. This event focuses on showcasing the East and West Midlands AHSN offer to industry and provides businesses with the opportunity to learn how, who and where to access the NHS.
Orthocell claims top spot at national competition Pitch@Palace
Medilink WM member Orthocell, has been declared a winner in the national final of the coveted Pitch@Palace competition – a global movement started by the British royal family, which aims to amplify the work of entrepreneurs and deepen their global impact.
Medilink member Gowling WLG finalists at the British Legal Awards 2019
Medilink West Midlands member Gowling WLG makes the shortlist in four categories at the British legal Awards 2019: TMT Team of the Year, Property Team of the Year, Innovation Through Technology Award and, jointly with Ashurst LLP, Competition/Regulatory Team of the Year.
Low number of health apps reach minimum standards
Health app evaluation and advisor organisation ORCHA, has revealed that only 15% of healthcare apps available for download meet minimum standards set by its review process. Its evaluation of over 5,000 health apps has revealed that a significant number of healthcare apps available to download do not meet the minimum safety requirements. Notably, 75% of apps aimed […]
Entries open for Medilink West Midlands Business Awards – celebrating the best in healthcare
Medilink West Midlands annual Medical and Healthcare Business Awards will take place on 13 February 2020. The Awards is our biggest event within our calendar, showcasing the best in life sciences across the region.
Medilink UK to give Midlands MedTech businesses detailed guidance on how to prepare for Brexit
Medilink UK, a membership organisation representing over 1350 medical technology and life-science companies, is hosting a free event on 22nd October in Birmingham at Medilink West Midlands office to help life science businesses prepare for Brexit. The Midlands is the second largest Medical Technology employer in the UK, making the region a key player in […]
Medilink WM patron The Binding Site gear up for Edward’s Trust charity challenge
Medilink WM patron The Binding Site are set to show their continued support for Edward’s Trust’s in its ’30 in 30’ challenge event this October. Staff at The Binding Site Group are gearing up to run, walk and hula hoop for Edward’s Trust’s ’30 in 30’ virtual challenge event.
Pioneering data research centres to enable cutting-edge research and innovation to benefit UK patients
NHS Digital is working with the University of Oxford, Microsoft and IBM to develop a new hub that aims to revolutionise the way in which clinical trials are delivered – providing foundation services to determine whether a clinical trial is feasible, and to support better planning and delivery of clinical trials in the UK.
Medilink member discounts at Pharma Integrates 2019
Pharma Integrates is a world-renowned conference which brings together senior executives from across the pharma, biotech, CROs/CDMOs, investment and regulation landscape to examine the drivers and hurdles of today and resolve the critical business issues of tomorrow. As a partner of Pharma Integrates 2019, Medilink Midlands has secured a significant discount of just £295 + […]
Department for International Trade – China Oncology Mission 2019
UK businesses are invited to join the Department for International Trade Oncology mission to China. As the second largest healthcare market in the world the opportunity for UK businesses is huge, with its competitive advantage and innovative high-tech solutions.
Impact of the new Medical Devices Regulation & In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Devices Regulation
The regulatory landscape for medical devices is presently very challenging. Industry is well aware that the three year transition period from a directive to a regulation ends on the 15th of May 2020, whereupon the new regulatory framework (MDR) will apply in full. This will be followed in May 2022 with the new IVD regulations.
SBRI Healthcare launch latest funding competition
SBRI Healthcare are pleased to announce that the next funding competition will launch on 24 June 2019. Companies and organisations are being invited to bid for funding to develop solutions to challenges in Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) and Integrated Care and Social Care.
Midlands Engine BioHealth Market Visit to Boston and Maryland: 22 – 27 September 2019
Registrations of interest are now being taken for our forthcoming trade visit to MedTech in Boston, the premier global summit for medical technology industry leaders, before travelling to the state of Maryland - a powerhouse for innovation.
Medilink West Midlands member Mercia invests £2.0 million in transdermal drug delivery specialist
One of Warwick Ventures (University of Warwick) med-tech spin-out companies which is developing an innovative transdermal drug delivery patch technology has secured a £2m investment from specialist technology funder Mercia Technologies.
2019 Winners Announced: Medilink UK Healthcare Business Awards in Association with Med-Tech Innovation
On the evening of Wednesday 15 May the 2019 Medilink UK Healthcare Business Awards took place. The sell-out gala dinner was the best yet, with 250 professionals from across the industry coming to celebrate with the winners, network with peers and share their pride in the industry.