New strategic partnership aims to boost healthcare teaching

The University of Derby and Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust have signed a strategic partnership to develop a more joined-up approach to the teaching of students and a more research-based approach to the delivery of healthcare.

The three-year agreement will build on existing relationships to strengthen knowledge, exchange opportunities, further develop the skills and expertise of the healthcare workforce and offer students an optimal learning experience.

Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust delivers NHS mental health, learning disabilities and substance misuse (drug and alcohol) services in the city of Derby and county of Derbyshire.

It also provides a range of children’s health services in Derby and southern Derbyshire and runs the regional East Midlands Gambling Harms Service.

The current relationship between the two organisations already supports apprenticeships and placements for University of Derby students and ongoing training and support for over a third of the Derbyshire Healthcare NHS workforce.

This new agreement opens up wider opportunities for further research and workforce development.

Dr Denise Baker, pro vice-chancellor and Dean of the College of Health, Psychology and Social Care at the University of Derby, said: “We are delighted to be entering into a strategic partnership with Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

“These agreements enhance our teaching and research, help us to broaden access to higher education and improve the student learning experience, preparing the next generation of medics, nurses and allied health professionals.

“There is also great scope to use data science and AI technology to evaluate effective patient-centred treatment, leading to improved patient experience and better health outcomes.

“We look forward to working more closely with Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, using our knowledge and expertise and providing our students with real-world learning experiences.”

The University of Derby offers several courses in nursing and healthcare, with 98% of nursing graduates in professional occupations 15 months after graduation.

Students are given hands-on learning techniques in facilities at the university, including a £1.5 million Clinical Skills Suite and NHS-Standard hospital ward.