The Business, Innovation & Growth (BIG) Summit returns to South London on Wednesday, 27 November 2024, at LSBU Electric House in Croydon.

This year, the event will centre on the future of healthcare in the region, examining how collaboration and innovation can address some of the sector’s most pressing challenges.

Organised by the South London Partnership, the Summit will bring together leading figures from both the public and private sectors to discuss healthcare advancements. The agenda will cover emerging technologies like virtual wards, AI, and machine learning, as well as critical topics such as workforce retention, skills development, and achieving Net Zero in healthcare settings. The event will also explore solutions to tackle health inequalities in the region.

Innovation and Collaboration in Healthcare

South London is home to several internationally recognised healthcare institutions, including The London Cancer Hub, St George’s University, and Epsom & St Helier Hospital. The BIG Summit aims to showcase the innovative work emerging from these centres and other local entrepreneurs who are transforming the healthcare landscape.

Matthew Hamilton, Director of the South London Partnership, emphasised the importance of this year’s theme. “This Summit provides a unique platform for stakeholders across different sectors to come together and explore both opportunities and challenges in South London’s healthcare system. Innovation will be key in improving patient care and delivering efficiencies.”

The Summit will also feature the Innovation Zone and lightning pitches, where local health innovators will present products and services that are shaping the future of healthcare delivery in the region.

LSBU: A Leader in Healthcare Education and Innovation

The event will be hosted by London South Bank University (LSBU), a key partner of the BIG South London initiative, at its Croydon campus. Professor Rodney Day, LSBU’s Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research & Innovation, spoke about the university’s commitment to healthcare education and research. “LSBU trains about a quarter of London’s nurses and educates future healthcare professionals in areas like chiropractic and social work. Our research actively addresses health, social justice, and the evaluation of healthcare interventions.”

As part of the Summit, LSBU will showcase its advanced 5G and Internet of Things (IoT) technology at its React Innovation Centre. These technologies are being used to develop models for remote care, early illness detection, and digital hospital care pathways. These innovations aim to improve patient outcomes by focusing on prevention, early intervention, and admission avoidance.

Addressing South London’s Health Challenges

Councillor Gareth Roberts, Chair of the South London Partnership, highlighted the importance of focusing on health in South London. “The boroughs of South London and Wandsworth are collaborating closely with the NHS to enhance the health and wellbeing of residents. However, we need to broaden our approach by incorporating innovative technologies and new partnerships that can support healthier communities.”

Roberts pointed out that there are many trailblazing academics, entrepreneurs, and social ventures working on technologies that could transform the healthcare sector. The Summit is designed to be a collaborative space where problem-solving, discussions, and new partnerships can thrive.

A Platform for South London’s Health Innovators

Alongside the main programme, an exhibition and series of lightning pitches will be held, showcasing innovative projects from across South London. These will highlight new products and services aimed at addressing future healthcare challenges, from improving the quality of care to creating a more sustainable and skilled workforce.

The event is open to a wide range of participants, including clinicians, businesses, investors, charities, academic researchers, students, and start-ups. It offers an opportunity for anyone with an interest in the healthcare sector to engage with new ideas, network with leaders in the field, and explore emerging trends that could reshape the future of health in South London.

To register for the event, visit the BIG Summit 2024 website.

Looking Ahead: Health and Innovation in South London

As South London prepares for the upcoming Business, Innovation & Growth Summit, the region’s focus on healthcare innovation comes at a crucial time. With the NHS and healthcare providers under increasing pressure, new technologies and collaborative efforts will play a critical role in improving patient care and operational efficiency.

By bringing together experts from various fields, the Summit aims to spark meaningful discussions and solutions that can help tackle some of the healthcare sector’s biggest challenges. From addressing health inequalities to ensuring that workforce retention and upskilling remain at the forefront of the agenda, the BIG South London Summit is set to explore the future of health in the region and beyond.