Tuesday 1 March 2016

In conversation with Sheffield MP Paul Blomfield

The University of Sheffield welcomed Sheffield Central MP Paul Blomfield on a recent visit to meet with leading health service researchers. The Sheffield MP was given a unique insight into the ground-breaking work being conducted at the University’s School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR) and Centre for Assistive Technology and Connected Healthcare (CATCH).
Prof Mark Hawley (left), Paul Bloomfield MP, Prof Sue Mawson (right)
Established in 1992, ScHARR is one of the largest and most dynamic schools of health research in the UK tackling some of the major challenges to improving people’s health and care. Paul Blomfield MP heard about some of the research areas which have positioned ScHARR as a leader in its field: public health inequalities, the Sheffield Alcohol Policy Model, evaluating urgent and emergency care, how health economics is informing decision making and expertise within the design and conduct of clinical trials.

The meeting stimulated dialogue about the interactions between policy makers and researchers, and the extent to which research evidence informs policy decisions at the highest level. 

Mr Blomfield was also introduced to members of the CATCH team, whose work in researching, developing and implementing new technologies aims to enable people to live well and age well. CATCH is a cross-university initiative based within ScHARR and directed by Professor Mark Hawley. 


 

A demonstration of some of the potentially life-enhancing assistive technologies included VIVOCA, a new Voice Input Voice Output Communication Aid to enable clearer communication for people affected with speech disorders and to help support independence in everyday life. Personalised self-management rehabilitation technology following stroke showcased the ‘intelligent shoe’ which uses a multi-sensored insole for walking re-education.

After his visit Sheffield Central MP Paul Blomfield, said:
“I was impressed by the breadth and depth of the research at ScHARR and will be working with the team there to help ensure that their work informs policy making.”

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