A Teesside doctor who cares for people with serious illnesses has been recognised nationally for shaping the future of health and care research.
Dr Donna Wakefield, consultant in palliative medicine at University Hospitals Tees, received a prestigious NIHR20 Rising Research Leaders prize from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) on Tuesday 6 October.
She was recognised for improving care for people with serious illnesses and championing greater inclusion in research, particularly for those from disadvantaged communities and people living with advanced disease.
Donna was one of only five doctoral-level researchers across the country to receive the prize, which was launched as part of the NIHR’s 20th anniversary celebrations.
The prize recognises researchers who demonstrate outstanding leadership, innovation and impact, while helping to make research more inclusive and relevant to communities.
Donna’s research focuses on reducing inequalities in palliative care, ensuring patients with advanced lung disease receive the best possible care and support regardless of their background.
She was commended for working closely with universities and healthcare organisations across the UK to improve care and support for patients with life-limiting conditions, embedding research into hospice settings and supporting healthcare colleagues to develop their own research skills.
Donna said: “I am honoured to have been recognised by the NIHR as part of their 20th anniversary celebrations.
Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to benefit from the support, guidance and encouragement of my supervisors, mentors, collaborators and fellow research professionals and I am incredibly grateful for the role they have played within my journey.
“Across the country, some people still find it harder to get the support they need at the end of their lives, especially if they live in poorer areas.
“The next part of my research involves talking to patients with advanced lung disease (lung cancer, mesothelioma, COPD, ILD), their carers and healthcare professionals to learn how we can improve end-of-life support for them.
“I would love to hear from people who can share their experiences and ideas so we can make care fairer for everyone.”
If you would like to get involved, please contact [email protected]