We’re excited to announce that, together with Swansea University’s Simulation & Immersive Learning Centre (SUSIM), we were awarded Runners-Up in the 2025 MediWales Innovation Awards for our joint submission celebrating pioneering work in digital simulation, sport science, and health innovation.
This recognition highlights the strength of a partnership that brings together immersive technology, data-driven research, and real-world application to improve outcomes for athletes, patients, and healthcare professionals across Wales. Since its establishment in 2024, we have worked closely with SUSIM to co-develop solutions that support preventative health, workforce sustainability, and the rapid adoption of innovation – key priorities for both Welsh Government and NHS Wales.
Through shared facilities, joint research projects, and regular engagement with clinicians, athletes, educators, and industry, our collaboration has created a dynamic testbed for transformative tech. SUSIM’s expertise in simulation, combined with NISH’s sector knowledge and access to end-users, has enabled the development of training programmes that reduce clinical errors, accelerate staff readiness, and enhance patient safety. At the same time, sport-led innovations such as wearable monitoring, AI-driven analysis, and advanced rehabilitation tools are being translated into NHS and community settings, supporting earlier intervention and empowering the public to take an active role in their health.
The impact extends beyond immediate clinical and performance gains. The partnership strengthens organisational resilience, reduces duplication of resources, and provides measurable cost savings for health boards. It also nurtures the next generation of researchers: SUSIM currently supports three PhD researchers and five neuroscience Master’s students working on simulation-focused projects, many of whom collaborate directly with NISH.
Our work has also drawn national attention. Following a recent visit, the Secretary of State for Wales praised the “groundbreaking work in sport and health,” recognising the role of the Swansea Bay City Deal in enabling this innovation ecosystem to flourish.
Being named runners-up at the MediWales Innovation Awards is a testament to the committed teams across NISH, SUSIM, and our partners. Together, we remain focused on driving forward world-leading sport-health innovation, expanding our facilities, and ensuring the benefits of digital and immersive tech reach communities across Wales and beyond.