Female innovators recognised for digital health solutions

Ten women with ideas for new ways of delivering healthcare in Yorkshire and Humber have received support from health innovation experts.

They took part in the Springboard programme, which ran from September 2025 until February 2026, was created by Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber to increase female representation in health innovation and support solutions aligned with NHS priorities.

Concepts created by the innovators include an app to identify patients at risk of malnutrition, a digital platform to support bereaved families, and a system to connect patients with healthcare services.

Kathy Scott, deputy chief executive at Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber, said: “It’s incredibly exciting to support these female innovators and hear about the ideas and solutions they are developing — ideas that have real potential to improve patient outcomes and increase efficiency across the NHS.

“The range of innovation is impressive, from digital platforms supporting the transition from hospital to community care, to a menopause app, to solutions focused on supporting the healthcare workforce.

“All of these ideas align with the NHS’s three key shifts — from hospital to community, analogue to digital, and sickness to prevention — and reflect current NHS priorities.

“Every one of these women has a credible, impactful solution, and we’re proud to support them on their journeys to bringing these innovations into the NHS.”

The 10 innovators will receive three months’ guidance from a mentor and ongoing support from Health Innovation Yorkshire & Humber and its partners Nexus at the University of Leeds and Amazon Web Services.

Dr Hinnah Rafique was presented with a ‘Springboard Emerging Innovator Award’ for her work on a stealth startup that redefines healthcare provision and access.

Rafique said: “The Springboard programme has challenged and strengthened my thinking, connecting me with mentors and partners who understand what it takes to move from idea to real-world impact.

“I’m excited to keep building a solution that helps people stay supported, seen and connected, while contributing to a more compassionate and sustainable healthcare system.”

A ‘Future Impact Award’ was presented to dietician Nicky Sumpter, who has created a plan for an app using AI to help clinicians identify patients at risk of malnutrition,

Sumpter said: “Springboard has helped me to focus on my idea, and it has changed a bit along the way, which has been really helpful.

“I’ve been given advice on how to form the plan and make sure the customer is at the pinnacle of what we are trying to achieve.”

Innovator Rebecca Wilson created Solace, a digital platform providing guidance, support and a community for those experiencing loss which includes education resources, a virtual memorial garden, kids’ zone and signposting to community and local services.

Wilson said: “Solace is my core focus, for now and I’m excited to move and accelerate forward.”

To learn more about attracting female innovators to the NHS you can listen to this episode of Digital Health Unplugged  with the co-directors of the NHS Innovation Accelerator.