HSU Achieves Strong Results in Latest Knowledge Exchange Framework
Health Sciences University shows significant improvement in professional development and graduate start-ups, maintaining strong public sector engagement.
By Verity Coombes
••4 min read
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The Health Sciences University (HSU) has reported significant achievements in the latest Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF6) results, demonstrating enhanced engagement in professional development and graduate start-ups.
The Health Sciences University (HSU) has announced strong performance in the recently published Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF6) results, compiled by Research England. This framework evaluates how universities collaborate with businesses, public services, community groups, and society at large to foster economic and social benefits.
HSU has shown notable growth in its knowledge exchange activities, particularly in continuing professional development (CPD) and graduate start-ups, moving from low to high engagement levels between KEF5 and KEF6. The university also sustained its robust performance in collaborations with the public and third sectors, as well as in intellectual property (IP) and commercialisation efforts.
Detailed metrics indicate high and very high engagement for HSU in areas such as CPD and continuing education income, licensing and other IP income, consultancy and facilities income, and joint research publications with non-academic partners. These outcomes are attributed to HSU's integrated strategy, which combines education, research, and clinical practice, creating collaborative opportunities for students, graduates, academics, clinicians, and external partners to apply knowledge for the benefit of patients, professions, and communities.
A key area of improvement was CPD and graduate start-ups, reflecting HSU's dedication to empowering students and graduates to convert knowledge and skills into new ventures that enhance health and wellbeing. The university's comprehensive CPD programme also equips healthcare professionals with the latest skills and evidence-based practices, supporting the development of the health and care workforce.
HSU's engagement with the public and third sector is exemplified by projects like the evaluation of oral health services for individuals experiencing homelessness in Dorset. In partnership with NHS, voluntary organisations, and other universities, HSU researchers are generating evidence to improve care access and reduce health disparities. The university also actively participates in regional collaborations through Wessex Health Partners, working with NHS bodies and academic institutions across the Wessex region to tackle shared health and care challenges. An example includes the collaboration with Pavilion Dance South West to develop and assess the 'Groove to Improve' programme, designed to support older adults with chronic low back pain through movement and community involvement.
Innovation and commercialisation activities at HSU have also strengthened. Through the UKRI-funded 'Bridging the Gap: A Shared Technology Transfer Office Vision for Wessex' project, HSU staff identified and developed innovations with commercial and societal potential, leading to six IP disclosures and the establishment of new institutional policies to foster innovation.
The Institute for Medical and Health Innovation (IMHI) further enhances HSU's role in connecting researchers, healthcare providers, industry, and communities, fostering new avenues for collaboration and knowledge exchange.
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"I am delighted to see such a positive results for HSU, reflecting our commitment to being a proactive system partner working closely with employers, NHS organisations, local authorities and other stakeholders. As a specialist provider we are able to co-create learning and development opportunities that directly support workforce development priorities. Our growth in CPD activity reflects the trust that organisations place in HSU to help upskill their workforce, strengthen professional capability and ultimately improve outcomes for the communities they serve."
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"These results demonstrate the breadth of research and knowledge exchange taking place across HSU and the value of working closely with partners across healthcare, industry, the public sector and local communities. We are particularly pleased to see the significant improvement in CPD and graduate start-ups, alongside continued strengths in public and third-sector engagement and innovation. Together, these activities help ensure that our expertise delivers meaningful benefits beyond the University."
Looking ahead, HSU plans to continue building on its integrated approach to education, research, and clinical practice. Initiatives like the Institute for Medical and Health Innovation, regional partnerships such as Wessex Health Partners, and ongoing support for innovation, entrepreneurship, and professional development aim to ensure the university's expertise delivers significant health, social, and economic impact at local, regional, and national levels.
