INVENTORS and innovators in the North-East health sector have been asked to step into the spotlight.

Healthcare innovators have been invited to submit their ideas for the annual Bright Ideas in Health Awards.

Now in its 14th year, the awards encourage, celebrate and reward innovation from frontline NHS staff and small to medium enterprises (SMEs) in the North-East and North Cumbria.

Dr Nicola Wesley, director of innovation at the Academic Health Science Network for the North-East and North Cumbria, said: “The awards showcase the outstanding examples of practise and innovation achievements of frontline staff and budding entrepreneurs that help to improve patient care, like no other event.

“For winners, the recognition gives a huge boost to their teams and organisations. It enhances their projects, raises morale and can help to secure backing and finance.”

The event is organised by RTC North in partnership with the Academic Health Science Network for the North East and North Cumbria (AHSN) and the NIHR Clinical Research Network North-East and North Cumbria.

This year, there are seven categories: Innovative Technology or Device, Service Improvement, Patient Safety and Quality Improvement, Outstanding Industry Collaboration with the NHS, Primary and Community Care, Research Delivery Impact and Most Innovative NHS Education Provider.

The winners of each category will receive a cash prize to help progress their ideas as well as specialist support from organisers RTC North, the AHSN NENC and the Clinical Research Network NENC.

The closing date for entries is September 11.