On Tuesday 28 April 2026, colleagues from across Wessex came together to celebrate the launch of the Wessex Intensive Care Innovation and Research (WICIR) Network – and to start shaping what comes next.
Held at Explorer House, the launch event brought together clinicians, researchers, trainees, non-medical health professionals and students with a shared interest in improving care for critically ill patients through collaboration, research and innovation. From the outset, the energy in the room reflected exactly what WICIR is about: connection, openness and the belief that we can do more by working together.
Why WICIR?
The WICIR Network aims to advance collaborative, inclusive and high impact research and innovation in critical care across the region. By bringing people and organisations together, the network supports joint studies, shared data, education and cross site learning – building research capacity while keeping patient outcomes firmly at the centre.
The launch was chaired by the network leads Ahilanandan Dushianthan (University Hospital Southampton) and Elizabeth Webb (Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust), who welcomed attendees and reflected on the journey so far. They introduced the network’s vision and objectives, inviting honest discussion about priorities, gaps and opportunities.
Rather than presenting a finished product, the event was very much about co production. Attendees were encouraged to challenge, refine and help shape what a truly connected intensive care research ecosystem should look like in practice.
“Bringing together multidisciplinary teams and ICU network leaders from across Wessex made this a genuinely energising and productive meeting. There’s a real sense of shared purpose and momentum—we’re now in a strong position to turn ideas into collaborative, high-impact research and innovation that will make a difference for our patients.” Ahilanandan Dushianthan
"We knew that innovative work is happening across the Wessex Intensive Care community, but we didn't know the details, nor how we can work together to bring greater results for patients. Network members inspired us with their projects and collectively set clear ambitions for the network. We look forward to using these to shape the next steps in WICIR's journey!" Elizabeth Webb
launch of the Wessex Intensive Care Innovation and Research (WICIR) Network
launch of the Wessex Intensive Care Innovation and Research (WICIR) Network
launch of the Wessex Intensive Care Innovation and Research (WICIR) Network
The Spotlight on research, innovation and lived experience
A key highlight of the morning was a series of short talks showcasing the breadth of work already happening across Wessex – and the potential for future collaboration.
Topics ranged from:
Together, these sessions reflected the diverse expertise within the region and sparked lively conversations about shared challenges, common interests and next steps for joint working.
Building the foundations for collaboration
The event also looked at the infrastructure and support needed to make collaboration easier. Updates on the Wessex Secure Data Environment highlighted how data can be accessed safely to support research, while the Hampshire Hospitals Clinical Research Education Programme showcased practical ways to build research skills and confidence among clinicians.
Attendees also had the chance to meet the WICIR Steering Group – a multidisciplinary team drawn from across Wessex, bringing clinical, academic and partner perspectives to guide the network’s direction.
What happens next?
The launch was just the beginning. Colleagues are encouraged to:
Regular in person network meetings are planned, with the next WICIR event expected later in 2026.
If you’re interested in being part of a growing community focused on improving intensive care through research, innovation and shared learning, WICIR is open to you.
More information about the network and how to get involved can be found via Wessex Health Partners: Network Page: WICIR and through contacting nina.barratt@wessexhp.org.uk
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