Bournemouth University (BU) – University Hospitals Dorset (UHD) Partnership Programme

The Bournemouth University (BU) and University Hospitals Dorset (UHD) Partnership Programme is a strategic collaboration designed to improve patient care, develop the workforce, and strengthen research and innovation across both organisations.

Purpose of the Partnership

The partnership brings together healthcare and academic expertise to:

• Improve the quality of patient care
• Train and support the current and future workforce
• Advance research and service innovation
• Deliver benefits for patients, staff, students, and the wider community.

How the Partnership Works

Guided by a joint BU–UHD Strategy (May 2021) focused on six key themes for collaboration.

• Senior leaders from both organisations agree an annual programme plan, progress overseen by partnership steering committee
• Two dedicated steering committees (Research, and People & Workforce) focus on the two key workstreams.
• Strong links exist across all four BU faculties, making it easier for staff and students to collaborate on ideas, education, and research

Developing the Workforce

• UHD hosts over 1,000 BU student placements each year, with hospital staff also contributing to teaching at the university
• Standardised pathways support placements, secondments, and joint posts
• Bespoke training programmes are co-developed, including accredited courses and leadership apprenticeships
• New training offers continue to evolve and support for existing courses continues.

Research and Quality Improvement

• The partnership provides clear pathways and support for staff to engage in research alongside their clinical roles
• Part-time opportunities enable UHD staff to develop research careers
• BU–UHD /BU-NHS research events promote networking, learning, and sharing best practice across disciplines.

2026 BU-NHS Research / QI/ Clinical Audit Conference "Moving Forwards Together" was held on 16th April 2026 in the Fusion Building Talbot Campus.

• Event Programme - Thursday 16th April 2026
• Welcome Slides
• Programme A - SHARE - 11am Slides
• Programme B - INSPIRE - 11am Slides
• Programme C - SHARE - PM Slides
• Programme D - FG06 - PM Slides
• Programme E - INSPIRE PM Slides

Overall Impact

Working together with BU helps UHD:

• Deliver better patient care
• Attract, develop and retain talented staff
• Make roles more rewarding and attractive
• Strengthen innovation and evidence-based practice for the benefit of the local community

For more information contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.