AHPs celebrate collaboration, innovation and a new vision for the future
Allied health professionals from across BCHC came together for a day of learning, networking and celebration and the launch of a new interactive online version of the Trust's AHP vision.
The event featured a keynote address from Dudley MP Sonia Kumar, who spoke about the impact of inter-professional collaboration and innovation between AHPs and how her experience as a junior physiotherapist inspired her political ambition and commitment to drive improvement in patient care.
The event to mark this week's AHP Day was opened by chief of nursing and therapies Lorraine Galligan, who introduced a varied programme celebrating the contribution of more than 800 allied health professionals delivering high-quality care in clinical teams across the Trust.
The event saw the unveiling of the interactive BCHC AHP Vision for 2026 to 2028 - a new online resource introduced following a recap of NHS England's AHPs Deliver strategy, helping to connect national priorities with BCHC planning and strategy.
The programme showcased examples of diverse and inclusive leadership, locality working, research and innovation, and the growing use of digital technology and data. Presentations covered anti-racism, innovative use of falls technology, artificial intelligence, digital developments in podiatry and virtual wards.
Sessions were dedicated to each of five key areas - putting people first, optimising care, addressing health inequalities, environmental sustainability, and strengthening the AHP community. Themes included hearing the patient voice; developments in children's services; public health learning; sustainability initiatives; and the development of safe learning environments.