Shaping health at every stage: insights from the ARC OxTV showcase

Attending the ARC Showcase was an inspiring experience. As the Events, Marketing, and Engagement Manager at the Oxford Biomedical Research Centre (the BRC), I was eager to learn more about how the ARC is turning research into real-world impact – and to see how both share a vision for better health outcomes. The event not only highlighted the ARC’s extensive work across health and social care but also emphasised the power of collaboration in applied research.

The day began with a thought-provoking keynote by Professor Gary Ford, Director of Health Innovation Oxford and Thames Valley. He opened by asking the audience to raise their hands if they believed the NHS was not broken – only a few hands went up. This exercise set the scene for his presentation, where he discussed the critical challenges facing the NHS and highlighted the essential role of applied research in addressing these issues.

As part of the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), the BRC and the ARC share a common purpose: to fund research that benefits patients, enhances NHS services, and contributes to the broader economy. While the Oxford BRC primarily funds early-stage research, the ARC takes those discoveries – and ones like them – and turns them into practical solutions for use in real-world applications, outside of the stringent confines of a clinical trial, for example. Together, we act as a “conveyor belt” for research, working hand-in-hand to support researchers at every step of their journey, from initial discovery to practical application.

Both organisations prioritise the needs of the community, striving for research that’s developed with the community and for the community. The ARC’s commitment to this approach was evident in its community-led projects and initiatives showcased. A particularly powerful example is Equal Start Oxford, which focuses on addressing health inequalities faced by Black and minoritised women and birthing people. This project is representative of the ARC’s dedication to making research more inclusive, relevant, and impactful for everyone.

What stood out to me on the day was the ARC’s commitment to improving health at every stage of life, from childhood through to old age. This focus was clearly reflected in the event’s structure, which organised projects into three categories: Start Well, Live Well, Age Well.

Moreover, the ARC supports both physical and mental health, with projects like the Online Support and Intervention (OSI) programme for child anxiety. This well-rounded approach shows their commitment to addressing key health and care challenges across the board.

Another encouraging point was the ARC’s alignment with the government’s recent focus on disease prevention, as reflected in many of their projects. By prioritising prevention and early intervention, we’re working towards a healthier future – a future where research doesn’t just react to health issues but actively works to prevent them.

By the end of the day, it was encouraging to see ARC Director Professor Richard Hobbs echo Professor Gary Ford’s opening question about who thought the NHS wasn’t broken. This time, most hands were raised –  a sign that while we all recognised the challenges, we also felt hopeful that solutions are possible.

Overall, the ARC Showcase reminded me that the work we do at the BRC and the ARC is ultimately about helping people live healthier lives. Together, we’re working towards a future where research makes a real, positive difference to our population.

To learn more about the Oxford BRC’s work, visit: https://oxfordbrc.nihr.ac.uk/