Excellence in clinical research and development at Stockport NHS Foundation Trust has been recognised with two separate shortlisted places in regional NHS research awards.
Both Wiesia Woodyatt, Research and Innovation Manager, and Daisy Pegler, Clinical Research Midwife, have been announced as finalists in this year’s Greater Manchester Health and Care Research Awards, run by the National Institute for Health Research.
Wiesia Woodyatt has been shortlisted in the Exceptional Research Delivery Leadership category at the awards. Wiesia heads the Research and Innovation department at the trust based at Stepping Hill Hospital, and is described by colleagues as providing inspirational and passionate leadership whilst helping to create a positive and supportive environment.
Under her leadership the department has expanded and has become a key clinical research site in the Greater Manchester area, and, working closely with the Greater Manchester Clinical Research Network, has in recent years has recruited thousands of volunteer research participants for studies on a wide array of conditions including heart disease, gastroenterology, cancer, stroke, reproductive health, and COVID-19.
She has overseen many clinical research studies which will greatly benefit huge numbers of patients in the future.
Daisy Pegler is a finalist in the New to Research category in the awards. Since joining the trust in 2021 as a clinical research midwife, Daisy has strengthened collaboration between the research and maternity teams, helping to significantly expand the number of clinical volunteers in this area.
One project she has helped to promote is the national IGBS3 study into women’s natural immunity against Group B Streptococcus (GBS), ensuring local parents can take part. The aim of the study is to help develop a vaccine which could help save the lives of thousands babies across the world.
She is described as a dedicated, conscientious, enthusiastic and creative colleague, who brightens up the day for team while helping to ensure high quality delivery.
Andrew Loughney, Medical Director for Stockport NHS Foundation Trust said “Both Wiesia and Daisy are outstanding members of our research and development team, not only working tirelessly for the promotion of high quality research in Stockport, but also in being a great support for their colleagues, nurturing the talent of every member of team.
Good quality research now means better care and treatment for patients in the future; they understand this which is why they work so hard towards it. It’s fantastic that Wiesia and Daisy have been recognised as finalists in the Greater Manchester Health and Care Research Awards, and I wish them every success at the ceremony.”
The winners of the Greater Manchester Health and Care Research Awards 2023, sponsored by Parexel, will be revealed during a ceremony at The Etihad Stadium, Manchester, on the evening of Thursday 5th October 2023.