Date published: 1 July 2025
Mersey Care recently joined the Northern Health Science Alliance (NHSA) as part of the trust’s intention to lead world class research and innovation in mental health and wellbeing.
The NHSA is a life sciences membership alliance which advocates on behalf of its members, supports projects, engages with industry and increases the visibility of the North’s excellence nationally and internationally.
The new partnership was celebrated at a launch event on 27 June at Maghull Health Park. The event was an opportunity for us to collaborate, present our research successes so far and discuss our shared vision for a future so we can work together to create ambitious research and innovation that transforms mental health care to benefit all.
Trish Bennett, Mersey Care’s Chief Executive Officer welcomed attendees with a presentation introducing the trust and its commitment to research. Trish was followed by Professor Dan Joyce, Director of Research and Innovation at Mersey Care and Co-Director of the Mental Health Research for Innovation Centre (M-RIC), who detailed the work currently being undertaken at the groundbreaking research facility.
Professor Dan Joyce said: “At Mersey Care our goal is to lead world class research and innovation in mental health and wellbeing, so we are thrilled to have joined the Northern Health Science Alliance (NHSA) to support us in this.
“Not only do we share the NHSA’s vision of benefiting the people of the North through groundbreaking health research and innovation, but we believe that their work to encourage collaboration, networking and investment amongst their members is essential in improving future health care.
“We are excited to work alongside the NHSA to drive forward impactful and ambitious research that will make a difference.”
Hannah Davies, NHSA Chief Executive spoke to introduce the NHSA’s mission and role in assisting the progress of research in the North. The NHSA’s various programmes were outlined by Dr Mandy Dixon, NHSA Head of Corporate Engagement, Dr Ben Martyn, NHSA Cluster Development Manager and Helen Cole, NHSA Executive Lead for Health Technologies and Evaluation.
Mersey Care presentations were given by Jahanara Miah, M-RIC Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement Lead, Dr Jade Thai, Mersey Care Senior Research Manager, Jon Devonport, Mersey Care Deputy Chief Digital Information Officer and Dr Sam Prendergast, Mersey Care Head of Commercial Innovation. Count Me In, our new way of increasing participation in research activities was promoted.
The day ended with a workshop discussion to identify priorities and opportunities for collaboration.
