The East Midlands Academic Health Science Network (EMAHSN) have launched their annual patient and public involvement fund, offering 15 awards of £1,000 to successful groups in the region. 

The funding is aimed at health service, social care, charities, voluntary and third sector organisations and groups. EMAHSN is looking for applications that encourage patients and citizens to get involved in health and care innovation, transformation and improvement - particularly applications that demonstrate the involvement of seldom heard and underserved communities. 

Successful groups last year included patient and public involvement groups representing individuals with learning disabilities and autism, cancer, long term conditions, bereaved parents, young carers and survivors of COVID-19. They used the funding to help them to continue to meet virtually, train members and attract new members for example. 

Gillian Priday, Macmillan Clinical Nurse Specialist for Long Term Survivors of Teenage and Young Adult Cancer at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, said: “Our Cancer and Associated Specialities Youth Forum used the funding to engage with teenagers and young adults whose unique voice is often unheard in much conventional PPI work.” 

EMAHSN Managing Director Nicole McGlennon said “The last year or so has seen a lot of change in the way that some of our health and care services are being delivered in response to the pandemic as well as in response to changing technology and advances in science.  

“It’s essential that we involve patients, citizens and carers in improving services to help health professionals understand healthcare planning and delivery from another perspective.  

“This annual fund provides practical support to help groups to widen their reach and involve more members of the public, ensuring as many people as possible can help inform how we transform services in future.” 

Applications for the awards will be considered by a panel including representatives from the East Midlands Patient Public Involvement Senate, an independent group of patients and carers. The Senate support health and social care organisations to embed patient and citizen involvement across the region. 

Applications to the scheme are now open. The deadline for applications is midnight Sunday 11 July 2021. If you would like support with your application or further information, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.   

For more information, for terms and conditions and to apply visit: www.healthinnovation-em.org.uk/ppifund  

Previous winners are unable to apply for the scheme.  

Notes to editors  

England’s 15 Academic Health Science Networks (AHSNs) operate as the innovation arm of the NHS. They collaborate (as the AHSN Network) to quickly spread innovation nationwide, whilst also working in their areas to respond to local health and care priorities. In the East Midlands, we bring together partners from across all sectors involved in health and care including the NHS, social care and public health, patients and the public, research organisations, voluntary groups and industry – to identify, test and spread new technologies and better ways of working. We aim to save the NHS money, generate economic growth, empower health and care staff, and improve the experience and outcomes of patients.  

Media enquiries:  

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