Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board showcases “phenomenal” breadth of research at annual conference

Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board welcomed its biggest-ever turnout to its annual Research and Development conference at the Vale Resort in Hensol.  

Delegates from across the NHS, industry, academia and the third sector came together to listen to a wide variety of presentations on topics such as the impact of an educational course for people living with Mild Cognitive Impairment; barriers and facilitators to breastfeeding among Gypsy and Traveller communities; evaluating switching from intravenous to oral antibiotics in neonatal infection and how a cardiac rehabilitation programme may improve patients’ quality of life.  

Alongside the presentations was an exhibition space featuring 60 posters.  

The event was opened by Professor John Geen, Assistant Director of Research and Development at Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, and welcomed Professor Peter Sykes, Associate Dean for Innovation and Enterprise at Cardiff Metropolitan University, and Professor Dean Harris, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon at Swansea Bay University Health Board, as its Scientific Chairs. It included a Keynote presentation by Dr Rob Orford, CEO of the Moondance Foundation.  

In his opening remarks, Professor Geen emphasised the need to embed research as a central part of the health board’s activities. Professor Geen said,

We can all contribute to research. To develop research activity, we need to develop research capacity and ensure research is integrated within clinical and non-clinical service delivery rather than competing with it.” 

Professor Dean Harris said, “This event is a great way for Cwm Taf Morgannwg to showcase the research they are doing. The breadth of research going on is phenomenal; it’s obvious there is a passion for it across the health board, and it’s in their DNA to deliver research to the standard that they are doing.” 

Dr Nicola Williams, Director of Support and Delivery at Health and Care Research Wales, said, “The conference was a fantastic opportunity to connect with colleagues and partners and highlight some of the innovative work happening in Cwm Taf Morgannwg. It makes me incredibly proud to see such a breadth of studies showcased and most importantly hear what a difference they are making to patients’ lives.”