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New peer network group launches for the medical and health science sector

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City College Plymouth in partnership with Plymouth Science Park is playing a leading role in a new peer-to-peer support group that is inviting health science organisations to join.

As part of Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership, this new working group is for companies and researchers in Devon and Somerset, who will come together in the new year to support one another as the country navigates the potential challenges of COVID-19 and Brexit.

The group is open to any medical and health science organisations carrying out research or developing products that will have a positive impact on health and patient care in the future.

Peer Network Facilitator, Ian Poyser, said: “We would like to encourage a variety of organisations and projects to become a part of this new working group that will support one another as the health science industry navigates these uncertain times. Examples of the work we are looking to see involved with this project include – but are not limited to – overcoming drug-resistant bacteria, health and nutrition supplements, the development of hypoallergenic foods and products, and more!

“The Peer Network will work through specific challenges or problems as a group using the Acton Learning Principles. This allows peers to share knowledge and experience, develop solutions, put them into practice and report back on the outcomes. The aim is to make the sector more resilient to potential challenges that lay ahead.

“As we anticipate that some of our future challenges will involve skills and training, City College Pymouth and other educational organisations could help overcome any potential skills gaps.”

Ian McFadzen, Chief Executive Officer of Plymouth Science Park, said: “The Plymouth Science Park is pleased to be working with the College to deliver this vital project aimed at improving the resilience of our local health science industry by connecting people and organisations.”

The group will meet online during January and March as the UK continues to battle COVID-19. To find out more information about the Peer Network, or to register your interest, visit https://sites.google.com/cityplym.ac.uk/hotsw-peer-network/home. Registration is open until Friday 8 January.