AUTUMN 2024
New medical school planned for Wolverhampton The University of Wolverhampton, working in partnership with the Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) and The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, has announced ambitious plans for a new medical school in the Black Country. Given the ambitions of the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan to double the availability of medical school places to 15,000 per annum by 2031/32, and the focus on establishing new medical schools to deliver this plan, there is a demonstrable need for medical education provision in the Midlands. Professor Ebrahim Adia, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton, said: “The university is an important provider of key workers including nurses, midwives, paramedics and social workers for the Black Country. The addition of medical education is a natural extension of our commitment to supporting the workforce needs of the NHS.” Mark Axcell, Chief Executive of the Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: “I am committed to strengthening the partnership between NHS Black Country and the university. This important step will deepen that partnership, allowing us to not only enhance health and wellbeing across communities but to directly build a future local NHS medical workforce.” Dr Jonathan Odum, Group Chief Medical Officer of The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, added: “The University of Wolverhampton looking to open a medical school is a great opportunity for both the university and the local population of the Black Country. This development provides opportunities for local students and applicants who are looking to pursue a career in medicine, staying local to where they live, building and supporting the local area.” The partners are in the process of setting up a Black Country Medical School Steering Group comprising membership from the university, the ICB and the Hospital Trust. The group will develop a strategic business case to submit to the university’s Board of Governors for consideration and decision.
WLV Business Link officially launched On Thursday 26 September, the Wolverhampton Business Link Network officially launched, bringing together over 180 delegates from across the region. The university recognises its key role in the social and economic prosperity of the region and as a major resource for the region’s business community. Working with various organisations across a wide variety of sectors, WLV Business Link will allow organisations to connect with each other to access resources and expertise. The event at University of Wolverhampton Science Park provided more information on the vision and goals of the WLV Business Link Network and
featured engaging talks from industry leaders on current trends and future outlooks. Interactive sessions provided lively discussion and helpful Q&A, culminating in a networking lunch that allowed attendees to connect with each other and find out more about university funding support. The strong turnout highlights the city’s thriving business community and its commitment to growth, collaboration, and innovation. Find out how WLV Business Link can help your business through: expert advice and consulting development of workforce skills incubation and tenant space specialist advice and support