Health and economic partnership launched to turn research into real-world impact

A new collaboration designed to boost health results and stimulate the economy was introduced today by officials from the Department of Health and the Department for the Economy.

The initiative brings together social care providers, higher education institutions, commercial enterprises and local communities to create innovations that benefit individuals while generating economic value.

Participants at the event included representatives from the Northern Ireland Executive, the Department of Health, the Department for the Economy, Queen's University Belfast, the Social Enterprise Hub and AstraZeneca UK.

The launch took place during NICON 2026 as authorities sought to reinforce Derry City and Strabane District Council's broader strategy of attracting life sciences investment.

Key figures present were Dr Paul Rice from the Department of Health, Professor Ian Bruce from Queen's University Belfast, Mike Farrar who serves as Permanent Secretary at the Department of Health, Christine Robinson from the Department for the Economy, Jonathan Patton from the Social Enterprise Hub and Tom Keith-Roach from AstraZeneca UK.

The group aims to streamline the process from initial discovery through testing to large-scale implementation in health and social care settings.

By focusing on specific medical challenges, the partnership intends to support the creation of high-value employment opportunities for indigenous businesses.

Media contacts remain with the Department of Health Press Office via email at pressoffice@health-ni.gov.uk or through official channels including Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.