The conference will focus on adopting a systems-thinking approach to demonstrating the value of research and innovation on integrated care and service users. Topics to be covered at the conference include discussions on improving primary care access for older people, minority ethnic communities and disadvantaged communities; and a look at the research being undertaken across BLMK to improve access to care services.

• Monday 13 May, registration from 9.15am
• G101 lecture theatre, University of Bedfordshire Luton campus

Register here to attend for free.

The conference will be opened with an address by the University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Rebecca Bunting. The keynote address will be delivered by Professor David Croisdale-Appleby OBE, Chair of the Royal College of Physicians, who will discuss healthcare and social care research within the context of integration.

Other speakers throughout the day include:

• Professor Nasreen Ali, Principal Research Fellow at the University of Bedfordshire
• Reverend Lloyd Denny, Senior Pastor & President of the Apostolic Churches Alliance
• Gary Martin, Service Improvement Lead at Bedfordshire Hospitals Trust
• Sally Cartwright, Director of Public Health at Luton Borough Council
• Dr Rima Makarem, Chair of BLMK Integrated Care Board

Professor Yannis Pappas, Professor of Public Health & Integrated Care and Director of the BLMK ICS Research & Innovation Hub, said: “This is the Research & Innovation event of the year in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes. Delegates will have the opportunity to hear about the latest developments in tackling inequalities in health and social care and engage in a dialogue with leaders in research, commissioning and practice. Eminent figures such as Professor Croisdale-Appleby OBE and Reverend Denny join a stellar list of speakers from academia, NHS and social care.”

To find out more about the conference and register for your place, visit the Eventbrite page.