Exceptional contribution to research, teaching, innovation or QI
Acknowledging the commitment and achievement of individuals or teams who have shown success in research, innovation or teaching. This could be awarded to a team or individual.
Cancer Vaccine Launchpad (CVLP) Team
Research, Innovation and Genomics
The CVLP Team has enabled patients to access personalised cancer vaccines through national trials. Since recruitment began in April 2024, our hospital achieved the second-highest number of patient enrolments for the BioNTech colorectal cancer trial.
The team includes clinicians, research staff and administrators who have collaborated to expand access to trials for melanoma and head and neck cancers. Their work has accelerated patient access to pioneering treatments, strengthened the Trust’s national research reputation, and delivered meaningful opportunities for patients in Gloucestershire and Herefordshire. Their innovation, collaboration and dedication exemplify excellence in research and patient-centred care.
Julie Hapeshi
Research and Development
Julie has been a driving force in developing research across Gloucestershire since 1994. She led the county’s first Research Strategy, established the Research Consortium, and played a key role in the creation of Research 4 Gloucestershire. Julie was instrumental in national studies such as the BOSS research project and trained colleagues in research methods, grant applications and patient and public involvement. She supported MHRA inspections, oversaw departmental mergers, and mentored staff who continue to champion research.
Since retiring in 2019, Julie continues to contribute as a Research Advisor in ophthalmology initiatives. Her vision, expertise and commitment have profoundly shaped research culture and capacity across the Trust.
Dr Freddie Henshaw and Rebecca Gyimah
Acute Medicine/Clinical Coding
Freddie and Rebecca have led a quality improvement programme improving documentation of primary diagnoses and co-morbidities. Their work has strengthened collaboration between clinicians and coders, increased awareness of conditions such as chronic kidney disease, and brought the Trust’s Summary Hospital-level Mortality Indicator (SHMI) back to expected range.
Beyond patient care improvements, their initiative has highlighted potential financial benefits of £150,000 per month. Freddie produced a poster for the Silver QI Awards while both have delivered extensive clinician education. Their efforts demonstrate how research, education and process improvement can directly enhance patient care, clinical understanding and operational performance.