We are proud to announce the launch of the Wessex Women and Girls Research & Innovation Network - a bold initiative dedicated to transforming the health and wellbeing of women and girls across our region
Despite making up over half of the UK population, women’s health has long been overlooked. From menstrual care and menopause to pregnancy and mental wellbeing, women face distinct challenges that demand focused attention. Yet for decades, healthcare systems have been shaped around male experiences - leaving serious gaps in research, access, and outcomes for women and girls.
The Wessex Women and Girls Research and Innovation Network aims to change this by bringing together researchers, clinicians, healthcare providers and community voices to tackle inequalities head-on.
Our Mission
Professor Ying Cheong, one of the network's co-leads and a leading specialist in Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, said: "This network is about turning research and innovation into real change – improving the health and wellbeing of women and girls across Wessex."
A Spark Ignited
The idea for a network journey began with the inspiring Wessex Women and Girls Event, where more than 100 delegates gathered at Southampton Science Park to spotlight the urgent need for change in women’s health. From maternal disparities to menopause, breast health to cancer care, researchers and innovators shared powerful insights and pioneering solutions. The event lit a spark which is now turning into a movement.
Powered by Partnership
This network builds on the collaborative work between Wessex Health Partners and our local Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) in Dorset and Hampshire & Isle of Wight. Together, we’ve already mapped nearly 200 research studies and connected 50 researchers to better understand the challenges and opportunities in women’s health which led to the publication of our report.
What’s Next?
We are inviting members to form the new Steering Group to play key role in guiding the network, with responsibilities including:
Meetings will be held quarterly.
Who Can Join?
We welcome expressions of interest from colleagues across Wessex Health Partner member organisations. If you work in women’s health - (especially in research or innovation) or you're passionate about driving collaborative cross-disciplinary progress, we’d love to hear from you.
When forming the Steering Group, we will aim to ensure:
How to Apply
The call is now open and the first Steering Group meeting will be in December.
To apply please send a covering letter/email to desi.baramova@wessexhp.org.uk by 17 October 2025 detailing how you intend to strengthen the group, and how you plan to engage people within your organisation to support the aims of the group.
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