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Nationwide digital health challenge #DigiInventors teams up with the Organised Educator Primary school pupils across Scotland are being asked to identify the health and wellbeing challenges that matter most to them and design digital solutions to fix them, as the #DigiInventors Challenge launches for 2026.   The nationwide competition, organised by the Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre (DHI), celebrates its 10th year in 2026, with the primary challenge open to pupils in P5-P7 working in teams. This year, organisers have teamed up with popular social media teacher influencer Organised Educator, aka David Grant, to help inspire more schools across Scotland to take part.   The challenge is designed to develop entrepreneurial thinking, design innovation, digital literacy and STEM skills while giving pupils an insight into potential careers in digital health and social care. All participants receive a #DigiInventors Challenge certificate, with winners taking home tech prizes and the coveted #DigiInventors trophy for their school.   Last year's primary winners included Multi-ColourZ from Newton Farm Primary in South Lanarkshire, who designed an app to support young people with colour blindness, and JH Grow and Glow from Wellington School in South Ayrshire, whose wellbeing app proposed to help children aged 5-12 develop healthy habits.   Professor George Crooks OBE is CEO at the Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre. He said:   “Young people bring fresh perspectives to health and care challenges because they experience services and systems directly, without the assumptions adults often carry. They can spot what feels unfair or what doesn't work in ways that are incredibly valuable for informing better solutions.   “The #DigiInventors Challenge has spent a decade creating space for exactly this kind of insightful thinking - inspiring Scotland's young people to think creatively about how technology can improve health and wellbeing. We've seen incredible ideas from primary pupils over the years - ideas that are thoughtful, innovative and rooted in real understanding of the challenges people face.   “This year marks an important milestone as we celebrate 10 years of the challenge, and we're delighted to have Organised Educator joining us. David’s passion for engaging young learners and making education accessible and fun aligns perfectly with our mission to inspire the next generation of digital health and care innovators. We're hoping his involvement will help us reach even more schools across Scotland and give more young people the chance to develop these crucial skills.”   David Grant, Organised Educator, said:   “I am absolutely thrilled to be involved in the #DigiInventors Challenge this year. It has been amazing to read about all of the past successes and amazing young people that have been involved. STEM and entrepreneurship are huge passions of mine and it’s a great privilege to be promoting these amongst our young people in Scotland.”   South Lanarkshire Council, whose schools have previously won both the primary and secondary #DigiInventors competitions, is encouraging more schools, teachers and pupils across the authority to get involved in this year's challenge.   Jacqueline Wallace, Head of Education (Primary and Early Years), at South Lanarkshire Council, said: “South Lanarkshire Council is delighted that one of our secondary schools won the Secondary #DigiInventors Challenge 2025. The challenge provides an excellent opportunity for young people to develop key skills while applying their learning to real-life contexts. We look forward to encouraging our primary schools to take part in the Primary #DigiInventors Challenge 2026 and to seeing learners continue to innovate, collaborate and problem-solve through this engaging challenge.”   The 2026 #DigiInventors Challenge is supported by 17 strategic partners from across the education sector including Education Scotland, SSERC, Skills Development Scotland, RAiSE, City of Glasgow College, and the University of Strathclyde.   Schools wishing to participate can access free teaching resources, templates and guides through the #DigiInventors website. The challenge runs from 5 January 2026, with applications closing on 27 February 2026. Winners will be announced on 23 March 2026, with an awards ceremony taking place at City of Glasgow College on 28 April 2026.   To get involved visit: www.dhi-scotland.com/digiinventors-primary-challenge

NHS inform is Scotland's online health information service that offers quality assured health and care information including symptom checkers, Scotland’s Service Directory and mental health advice and resources.    The Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre (DHI) is supporting NHS 24 in the redevelopment of NHS inform and is awarding a grant of up to £35K (inclusive of any VAT) for an academic team to undertake an evaluation of prototypes/wireframes developed as part of the service redesign of the NHS inform website. The approach is anticipated to include   UX evaluation protocol and testing sessions, accessibility compliance reportiing and inclusive design recommendations. It is likely that the academic team will offer, either directly, or through engagement with third parties, a combination of of the following experience and expertise: ·       User research; ·       Wireframing/prototyping; ·       Information architecture; ·       Visual design; ·       Communication; ·       Critical thinking/problem solving.   We welcome responses outlining approach, methodology, and costs (max. 10 pages), with CVs included as appendices. More information on this call and how to apply can be found here.   Complete applications should be submitted to  research@dhi-scotland.com  by 5pm on 19 th January 2026.  Any queries should be directed in the first instance to Jennifer Thomas:  jennifer.thomas@dhi-scotland.com .

Running alongside an engaging programme of talks and discussions, the Demo Zone at DigiFest 2025 offered something different: a chance to see, try, and talk through new digital health and social care research and innovation projects On 11 December, organisations from across the UK and Europe used the space to showcase tools already being tested, refined, or rolled out - and to have honest conversations about what works, what doesn’t, and what’s needed next. For those who couldn’t make it along, here’s what you missed. Game-Based Rehabilitation Designed Around Motivation Lucia Panese, CEO of Imaginary , travelled from Milan to demonstrate REHABILITY , a digital rehabilitation platform developed through more than a decade of European research. Imaginary specialises in interactive games, and for the past 12 years has focused on applying them to tailored rehabilitation. Their system is now a certified medical device, built around a collection of around 50 games co-created with rehabilitation specialists and patients. Rather than abstract exercises, the games mirror real physical and cognitive tasks. Therapists can design personalised therapy plans by selecting relevant games and adjusting parameters to suit individual needs. Patients then complete therapy independently at home via their TV, receiving immediate feedback through visuals and scores. Behind the scenes, more detailed data is collected for clinicians to review progress and adapt treatment plans. Imaginary came to DigiFest through existing research relationships and used the Demo Zone to observe real reactions, test engagement, and continue conversations about how game-based approaches can support long-term rehabilitation adherence. Self-Service Health Monitoring in Community Settings Caitlin Collins represented Microtech Health , an organisation best known for supplying digital solutions to GP practices and community environments. Their demo focused on the Surgery Pod : a self-service unit combining a touchscreen with blood pressure monitoring, height and weight measurement, and other vital sign checks. Patients can use the pod either before an appointment or independently, supporting more proactive engagement with their health. The system also includes structured pathways covering areas such as smoking cessation, mental health, and alcohol support. These allow patients to record information and begin conversations with clinicians in a more informed way. At DigiFest, Microtech Health was keen to connect beyond traditional GP settings and explore how their products might support wider health and social care partnerships. The Demo Zone offered a busy, practical environment to do exactly that. Supporting Palliative Care Beyond the Clinic Working in collaboration with the University of Strathclyde , Kenny Steen from Tactuum showcased CarePac , a digital platform designed for palliative and end-of-life care. CarePac supports patients who are unable to attend appointments, whether due to illness or geography by enabling clinicians to send regular check-ins. These can be completed by patients themselves or by carers, ensuring clinicians remain informed and can intervene when necessary. The demo shared context around why this cohort was chosen, including patient preferences for receiving care at home and the challenges many face in accessing services. Screens and visuals gave visitors a clear sense of how the platform works in practice, without overstating its scope. For the CarePac team, DigiFest was about visibility and connection - meeting health boards, sharing learning, and exploring where the platform could integrate with existing systems to support better care across Scotland. Designing Digital Inclusion With, Not For, People Cheryl Stevenson from Scottish Care attended alongside colleagues from OpenCast and North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, sharing work focused on digital inclusion for people with learning disabilities. Developed as part of a collaboration involving the Scottish Commission for People with Learning Disabilities, Scottish Care, North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, OpenCast, and interns from Glasgow School of Art, the project explores how digital inclusion can be made practical and meaningful. On display was a mix of case studies, frameworks, and a hands-on toolkit designed to support collaborative, playful conversations about digital technology. Rather than assuming a one-size-fits-all solution, the work encourages shared learning, helping people explore what digital tools can do for them, and how they want to use them. The designs were intentionally colourful and inviting, reflecting the project’s aim to make digital inclusion approachable, scalable, and grounded in lived experience. The Demo Zone provided space to test ideas, gather feedback, and connect with others tackling similar challenges. International Health Tech Collaboration in Practice The Demo Zone also welcomed a visiting Indian health tech delegation, taking part in the UK–India Health Tech Accelerator Visit to Scotland, led by the British Embassy and the Foreign Office in Delhi. Building on two successful inward missions to Scotland in recent years, the delegation used DigiFest as an opportunity to connect with the Scottish health and innovation ecosystem. Their focus included exploring clinical trial opportunities with NHS partners, understanding UK regulatory and procurement pathways, and developing routes to commercialisation, as well as establishing research and development collaborations with UK institutions and innovation centres. Together, the Demo Zone reflected DigiFest’s wider themes of collaboration, real-world application, and innovation shaped by people’s needs. It offered a space for practical conversation, hands-on exploration, and meaningful connections across health and social care. We’re already looking ahead to DigiFest 2026 , and the next opportunity to bring ideas, tools, and partnerships together in the Demo Zone. If you’re interested in showcasing your work or taking part next year, please get in touch at: Vincenzo@futurescot.com

Background context Rural and island services often struggle to get innovative digital ideas approved because practitioners are rarely trained in developing persuasive, evidence-based business cases. Working with the Digital Health and Care Innovation Centre (DHI), the National Centre is helping address this gap for Moray’s health and care workforce. Programme description Co-design of the Digital Transformation Business Case Training programme is now underway, delivered by City of Glasgow College in partnership with DHI. The training will support staff to turn local evidence into concise, impactful value statements, with online modules, practical guidance, and Moray-specific case studies hosted on Turas – a modern and accessible digital platform developed by NES to support health and care professionals working in the public sector. Co-design sessions began in October and will run through to April 2026, with iterative evaluation and refinement. Impact on services This programme is building local capacity for digital transformation, enabling practitioners in Moray to develop stronger, more confident business cases that can accelerate the adoption of digital tools and improve care for rural communities. Partners The programme is delivered by the Digital Health and Care Innovation Centre (DHI) and City of Glasgow College, in partnership with the National Centre for Remote and Rural Health and Care. Learn more: https://learn.nes.nhs.scot/75096?utm_source=NC+Stakeholder+Mailing+List&utm_campaign=0ea19fdc65-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_12_17_09_33&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-0ea19fdc65-1401136279

The partners behind SAFXR (Safety Planning for Suicide Prevention XR) have announced significant progress in the co-design and development of an innovative immersive learning solution that aims to transform how professionals respond to people experiencing suicidal thoughts, while also supporting their own mental health and resilience.  SAFXR, which began development in July 2025, is a collaborative project led by Care Reality in partnership with NHS Education for Scotland (NES), the Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre (DHI), and the Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory (SBRL) at the University of Glasgow. The project brings together expertise in immersive technology, clinical education, mental health research, and lived experience insight.  SAFXR is supported by funding from Innovate UK (IUK) through the Mindset Extended Reality (XR) funding programme , which aims to advance immersive digital therapeutics for mental health across the UK. This investment is part of a broader £20 million initiative to grow the UK’s immersive digital mental health sector by backing R&D into extended reality (XR) solutions, including VR, AR and mixed-reality therapeutic approaches, that aim to improve access to evidence-based mental healthcare and support positive outcomes at scale.   Using Care Reality’s FLO XR platform, SAFXR integrates scenario-based learning with evidence-informed safety planning, enabling professionals to rehearse complex, emotionally challenging situations in a controlled environment. Co-design is central to the project, with people with lived experience, frontline practitioners, and mental health specialists contributing directly to the shaping of content, scenarios, and therapeutic elements.  The co-design phase, now well underway, is focusing on scenario storyboarding, emotional safety considerations, and user experience design. Early testing will take place in the University of Glasgow’s ARC XR Lab, with further evaluation planned across multiple sectors in 2026.  The project responds to a clear and urgent need: suicide remains one of the most pressing public health challenges and supporting the mental health of those working in high-pressure, public-facing roles is essential. SAFXR aims to provide a dual-benefit solution, enhancing professional competence in suicide prevention while offering reflective tools to help users manage their own wellbeing.  SAFXR is being co-designed for use across health, social care, education, emergency services, justice, and community settings, aligning with national strategies including Scotland’s Creating Hope Together action plan.  Further updates will be shared as the project moves into early testing and evaluation stages in 2026.

Young innovators crowned as #DigiInventors Challenge celebrates nine years of digital health ideas A team of South Lanarkshire schoolgirls has won the Scottish title at this year's #DigiInventors Challenge for an app designed to get more girls into football.   The #DigiInventors Challenge is DHI's flagship schools competition, run in 2025 in partnership with Scottish Women's Football. Now in its ninth year, it has engaged nearly 2,700 young people across Scotland and the UAE, challenging them to develop digital solutions to real-world health and wellbeing challenges. This year's challenge asked pupils to consider how technology could help inspire more girls and women into football, challenge stereotypes, and promote healthier lifestyles.   She Scores Solutions, a team from St Andrew's & St Bride's High School, created TrainHer – a gamified training app that helps girls under 16 build confidence and develop their football skills through daily challenges, leaderboards and rewards.   The idea was inspired by teammate Maya Barcella's own experience. When she joined a local boys team she struggled to fit in – and that motivated her and classmates Sophia Barcella, Hannah Lee and Lucy Waters to create something that would help other girls feel welcome in the sport.   Maya said:  “From the start it felt like I didn't belong – the boys wouldn't talk to me or even warm up with me. It was because of this we felt that creating TrainHer would help girls grow in confidence and encourage more girls to get involved.”   Sophia, who plays for Motherwell FC, said: “Having played for many teams I know all the benefits that football can have on young girls. We hope our app can get the next generation of girls to play football.”   According to sportscotland, just 55% of teenage girls meet recommended physical activity levels outside school, compared to 66% of boys. TrainHer aims to close that gap by making training fun, social and rewarding.   The app features daily challenges, leaderboards and rewards including tickets to women's football matches. During development, the team consulted other pupils, including those who play for girls' football teams. They shared the challenges they face and suggested features they'd like to see – including a community page where girls can connect and support each other.     Vivienne MacLaren, Chair of Scottish Women's Football and judge at this year's #DigiInventors Challenge, said: “ We know girls' participation in sport drops off at key stages, and the overuse of digital technology has meant many feel self-conscious about how they look when exercising. So putting digital tools to good use – encouraging girls into football, building community and building confidence – is so important. The pitches I heard were all exceptional and it was extremely difficult to pick a winner. I'd like to congratulate all the finalists and look forward to supporting the winners in any way I can.”   Professor Eleanor Shaw is Associate Principal at the University of Strathclyde and also judged this year’s competition. She said: “I was blown away by the quality of the pitches made by the young people. Their passion and commitment to addressing pressing health and wellbeing challenges was inspirational. It was incredibly difficult to select only two winners, and on behalf of Strathclyde Inspire, I'm keen to explore how we can continue to support the development of these excellent ideas.”   Craig Miller, Computing Science Teacher at St Andrew's & St Bride's High School, said: “ The competition has been a wonderful experience for all involved. Pupils have grown in confidence and developed their digital skills alongside learning about the process of turning their vision into reality. The team at DigiInventors have been an amazing support.”   Martina Hendry, Lead Officer Raising Attainment – Primary, at South Lanarkshire Council, said:  “We are immensely proud of our pupils from St Andrew's and St Bride's High School. Their solution addresses real barriers that girls face in football and turns training into a motivating, confidence-building experience. Rooted in the pupils' own observations and experiences, TrainHer encourages young women to stay active and feel empowered to participate in a sport they enjoy. The professionalism and ambition they've shown throughout has been exemplary.”   A primary school edition of the #DigiInventors Challenge launches on 5th January 2026, inviting all P5-P7 pupils across Scotland to develop their own digital health and care ideas.   Professor George Crooks OBE, CEO at Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre, who presented the award to the winning team, said: “After nine years of #DigiInventors, we've seen first-hand how powerful it is when young people are given the tools and confidence to tackle health challenges that matter to them. TrainHer is a brilliant example of that in action. Expanding the programme to primary schools is the natural next step – we want to inspire that entrepreneurial, problem-solving mindset at an even earlier stage and show pupils across Scotland that their ideas can make a real difference.”   The UAE title went to Posture+ from Pristine Private School – a smart wearable patch that detects slouching and gently vibrates to prompt better posture. Paired with a gamified app, it helps students, workers and athletes build healthy habits and prevent back pain.   Scotland Runner-Ups   (in no particular order)   ●        The Queens Ball - St Ninian's High School ●        S.T.A.R.A - St Luke's High School ●        SoleTech - Merchiston Castle School   UAE Runner-Ups   (in no particular order)   ●        Nova Voice - Arab Unity School ●        Flourish - Arab Unity School ●        Kenetique - Pristine Private School   For more information, visit: www.dhi-scotland.com/digiinventors

The first SUMIT ( S ubstance U se and M ental Health I nterventions using Digital T echnology) Community of Practice took place on Tuesday 18 th  November in Queen’s Communities and Place.   This marked an exciting step toward strengthening collaboration and learning across the SUMIT programme. Led by Queen’s Communities and Place, the Community of Practice (CoP) is designed to bring SUMIT partners together around a common purpose, with this first session focused on building a strong foundation and setting shared direction for our ongoing work. The meeting offered space for reflection, dialogue, and practical planning.   The meeting began by establishing the shared purpose, principles, and foundation for trust that will guide our SUMIT CoP. Participants discussed the importance of collective learning and mutual support, highlighting that collaboration would be central to realising SUMIT’s ambitions for all.   A key highlight was the opportunity to reflect on local learning from our Community and Voluntary sector partners. Organisations reflected information on their services and service user landscape; alongside recognition of current challenges and recent successes within their organisation and geographical area.   These experiences brought to life the diversity of local contexts and demonstrated the value of peer exchange. Participants noted some similar issues which resonated across regions, as well as learning from place-based successes, reinforcing the importance of collaborative learning.   Building on these reflections, the session turned to learning from best practice examples. Expert contributions from the Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre (DHI) and the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) provided inspiration and practical insight. Alan Connor (DHI's portfolio lead of Digital Addiction Support) shared approaches to embedding digital inclusion within existing service provision, with a focus on the impact of digital solutions in Scotland. Aaron Slater (Digital Inclusion Manager, SCVO) explored digital inclusion in more detail, with consideration at individual, organisational and sectoral levels. These sessions sparked rich discussion on how such models could be relevant, adaptable and scalable within the SUMIT context.   The meeting closed with a forward-looking discussion on next steps, including who else should be part of the conversation and how the CoP will continue to evolve. Members agreed on the importance of broadening participation, fostering ongoing knowledge exchange, and initiating collaborative activities that translate shared learning into tangible outcomes.   As one participant noted, “The power of this community lies in learning from each other. Our challenges, our creativity, and our collective drive to make digital inclusion real.”   The first SUMIT CoP meeting set the tone for an open, inclusive, and action-oriented network; one that will continue to facilitate, share, and promote best practice across the partnership.   SUMIT is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB)

Strengthening Scotland’s Digital Mental Health Innovation Ecosystem The SAFXR project, funded through Innovate UK’s Mindset-XR Round 3 competition, launched on 1 July 2025, uniting Care Reality, NHS Education for Scotland (NES), the University of Glasgow, and the Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre (DHI) to co-develop an immersive, machine-learning-enabled suicide-prevention training resource as part of Care Reality’s existing XR FLO platform. The project’s goal is ambitious yet clear: to enhance practitioner capability and learner self-reflection through realistic XR simulation and evidence-informed design. Strengthening DHI’s Role in Scotland’s Digital Health Landscape For DHI, the SAFXR project is a tangible demonstration of how innovation partnerships can advance national priorities for digital mental health. DHI has contributed with partners to shaping early project governance, facilitating cross-partner collaboration, and embedding the learning methodologies and technical design processes that now underpin SAFXR development. These structures have been essential in establishing a coherent operational rhythm across four organisations with individually distinct cultures and working practices. The project also highlights DHI’s role in convening triple-helix expertise around complex mental-health challenges, translating research, service needs, and technology capabilities into a pathway for real-world impact. A Boost for the Digital Mental Health Innovation Cluster SAFXR directly bolsters the Digital Mental Health Innovation Cluster, which DHI facilitates on behalf of Scottish Government, as part of its mission to accelerate innovation across Scotland’s mental-health ecosystem. The project contributes to DMHIC in three key ways: Building shared capability across academia, NHS partners, and industry. SAFXR’s collaborative model, linking University of Glasgow, NES, DHI, and Care Reality, demonstrates the multidimensional partnership approach that the cluster aims to foster. Providing a flagship example of XR applied to real clinical and front-line training needs. As the platform matures, it will serve as a visible, evidence-based exemplar of how immersive technology can help address frontline mental-health challenges such as suicide safety planning and practitioner skills development. Enriching Scotland’s pipeline of validated digital mental-health solutions. Through structured co-design, rigorous educational modelling, and early adoption of technical enablers, SAFXR is creating a robust foundation for scale and future translational projects within the cluster. These contributions advance the cluster’s strategic goals while expanding Scotland’s capacity to innovate responsibly and collaboratively in the area of digital mental health. Project Highlights from Phase 1 (July–September 2025) Co-design work was progressed through the creation of Figma storyboards, draft narrative flows, early mock-ups, and a refined learning-journey model transitioning from six modules to a progressive three-phase pathway. On the technical side, the early completion of the Content Prescription System within the FLO platform, using AWS DynamoDB and a new React-based admin dashboard, provides a strong foundation for upcoming XR content integration. Looking Ahead Over the next quarter, the consortium will focus on: Completing storyboard QA and validation Advancing asset procurement and Unity prototype development Delivering the baseline machine-learning model and APIs Initiating focus groups and early engagement sessions These activities will not only drive SAFXR forward but will further strengthen DHI’s role in shaping next-generation digital mental-health solutions for Scotland, fostering a thriving and impactful innovation cluster. In Summary SAFXR Phase 1 closes with strong partner alignment, a clear educational and technical blueprint, and a shared commitment to delivering an immersive training platform capable of transforming suicide-prevention training and skills development. SAFXR is already demonstrating the power of collaborative innovation, and its progress significantly amplifies the impact and visibility of Scotland’s Digital Mental Health Innovation Cluster.

DigiBete now available across all 14 health boards following successful pilot phase An innovative digital education platform supporting children and young people with Type 1 Diabetes has been successfully rolled out across all 14 NHS Scotland health boards, marking a significant milestone in standardising diabetes education and support throughout the country. The DigiBete app, which provides age-appropriate resources and guidance for children, young people and families living with Type 1 Diabetes, is now being used by over 3,000 people in Scotland following a highly successful scale-up programme. The initiative, led by the Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre (DHI), represents a positive example of how use of Digital Health Tools can empower and support patients and families to self-manage their condition whilst reducing pressure on NHS services. Funded by the Scottish Government until July 2026, the platform and App offers educational videos, quizzes, and resources in over 100 languages, making it accessible to families from diverse backgrounds. Crucially, the content automatically adapts as children mature, ensuring comprehensive support from diagnosis through to young adulthood. Data from the initial pilot phase showed that 100% of clinicians surveyed wanted to continue using the platform, citing significant time savings as they no longer needed to create individual educational resources. Parents and young people praised the app's accessibility and the reassurance it provided, particularly during critical transition periods such as moving from paediatric to adult care services. Dr Robbie Lyndsay, National Diabetes Lead, NHS Scotland, said: “As clinicians, we are keen to try to provide timely, convenient information to people with diabetes. From discussion with paediatricians in Scotland they have been delighted to see this innovative approach and value future use of DigiBete.” The app addresses a vital need for Scotland's approximately 4,500 children and young people living with Type 1 Diabetes, a lifelong condition where the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Early education is critical, as some children are diagnosed as young as two years old, placing considerable responsibility on parents and carers to understand and manage the condition. Michelle Brogan , who leads the diabetes portfolio at DHI, said: “DigiBete App puts families and young people living with Diabetes more in control of their own health - giving them the knowledge and confidence to help manage their diabetes independently. This is exactly the kind of person-centred digital solution that shifts care towards prevention and self-management, which is at the heart of what DHI does. We have seen a fantastic response from the Clinical community in Scotland and look forward to working together to expand its reach. Niomi, mum of five-year-old Faith from Glasgow, discovered the DigiBete app when her daughter was newly diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes. She said: “When Faith was diagnosed earlier this year, I was overwhelmed by how much I didn't know. There's so much to understand about managing Type 1 Diabetes, and the information I was given at diagnosis is only the start. What I love about the DigiBete app is that it's become my go-to resource. I check it all the time for information, advice, and reassurance. It's given me access to updated, reliable information exactly when I need it – whether it's about managing blood sugars, sick days, or just understanding what's happening with Faith's condition. It's made a real difference in how confident I feel managing her diabetes day to day.” The platform includes three key elements: educational content covering everything from managing blood glucose levels to dealing with sick days; a communications tool allowing clinics to send personalised information to patients; and a personal diary feature where users can record insulin doses, appointments, and notes. The initiative also addresses health inequalities by ensuring that families in remote and island communities have access to the same high-quality educational resources as those in urban centres, helping to reduce variations in diabetes education. Emily, aged 20 from Kinloss in Moray For Emily, aged 20 from Kinloss in Moray, the app has been particularly transformative. Diagnosed at 10 years old, she has spent a decade navigating Type 1 Diabetes. She said: “When I was diagnosed, I didn't understand any of it, and the information dump of different leaflets and handouts was massive. School was really hard because nobody, not even the teachers, really understood diabetes. Growing up, me and my mum have had to figure so much out on our own. The DigiBete app has been brilliant because it gives me practical tools and information that's actually relevant to me in one place. I'm hopeful it will help me finally get my blood sugars to where they should be.” DHI has been working with Diabetes Scotland’s ‘Together Type 1’ programme to promote the app, ensuring the resource reaches families who will benefit most from it. DHI is now conducting a service evaluation of the scale-up phase, with outcomes expected to inform a business case for continued funding beyond 2026. An educational training platform for schools has also been developed to raise awareness amongst teachers and communities about managing Type 1 Diabetes. For more information, visit : www.diabetesinschools.org The DigiBete app is free to download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. For more information about DigiBete, visit: www.digibete.org

This month marks National Diabetes Awareness Month, a timely opportunity to spotlight the digital health innovations being accelerated within the Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre (DHI). Today, we’re shining a light on DigiBete, a growing national success story that’s transforming how people manage diabetes through accessible, empowering digital tools DigiBete in Scotland Scotland leading the way in transforming diabetes care for children, young people, and families and at the heart of this transformation is DigiBete, a digital platform that has become a cornerstone of support, education, and empowerment. A Digital Revolution in Diabetes Education DigiBete, a clinically approved digital platform, has made remarkable progress in Scotland by providing accessible, multilingual resources, including over 400 videos, games, and tools to help families manage Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. With over 3000 patients and families supported across Scotland, and nearly 200 healthcare professionals engaged, DigiBete is fast become an essential part of the diabetes care ecosystem . The Power of "Once for Scotland" Scotland’s "Once for Scotland" approach - where national collaboration replaces fragmented regional efforts has been instrumental in ensuring consistent, high-quality care across the country. By adopting a unified strategy, Scotland has been able to scale DigiBete’s impact efficiently, ensuring that no child or young person is left behind due to variational disparities. This approach has also enabled seamless adoption of DigiBete into NHS services, allowing clinicians to recommend trusted resources and families to access support 24/7, even outside of clinic hours. A Clinically Led Movement Whilst DHI has led this work, none of this would have been possible without the unwavering commitment of Scotland’s Diabetes clinical community. From paediatric diabetes teams to national networks, healthcare professionals have championed DigiBete as a vital tool in improving outcomes. Their dedication to innovation, equity, and patient-centred care has driven the platform’s scale up success. The collaboration between DHI, Scottish Government, DigiBete and clinicians has also led to the development of new tools, such as the Coping with Diabetes Early Intervention Tool and the Diabetes in Schools Programme - initiatives that are already making a measurable difference in the lives of young people Looking Ahead As DigiBete continues to evolve - expanding its AI-powered tools, enhancing peer support features, and growing its international reach, Scotland remains a shining example of what can be achieved when digital innovation meets clinical excellence and national unity. The journey is far from over, but the message is clear: when we work together, we can change lives DigiBete is funded by Scottish Government Author: Michelle Brogan DigiBete Website: https://www.digibete.org/

The national NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme is now accepting applications for its next cohort.  Are you an NHS employed individual living and working in Moray who has innovative ideas that could improve patient care and transform healthcare delivery?  The Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre (DHI) have secured nine places in Scotland, with one allocated specifically for a Moray Individual and fully funded by the Rural Centre of Excellence (RCE) for DHI. A £5M UK government funded project under the Moray Growth Deal. Delivered by the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme, this one-year course empowers individuals with bold ideas to improve patient care, health outcomes and system efficiency. NHS staff in Moray who have business ideas and entrepreneurial spirit are encouraged to apply.   Successful applicants will gain access to expert mentoring, bespoke training and a powerful network of healthcare leaders, entrepreneurs and investors.   Who can apply?   Open to all clinical and non-clinical NHS Staff who want to develop or scale innovations in Health and Social Care without leaving the NHS.  Applications will be open from 3 rd  to the 28th of November 2025.   For more information and how to apply, visit : www.nhscep.com    Questions can be directed to cep@aru.ac.uk

Explore the latest UNITE Digital Health funding call and Scottish information session, along with two new FREE online courses now available from UNITE Digital Health. UNITE Open Call Transform the future of European digital health UNITE is a major pan-European programme aimed at transforming healthcare through digital deep tech innovation. As healthcare systems across Europe face growing challenges, there is an urgent need for innovative digital solutions. The first UNITE Open call is now open and offering €4 million in financial support for breakthrough solutions that will transform European healthcare. The call has been designed to support start-ups, scale-ups, and SMEs in delivering deep tech solutions that can bridge regional innovation gaps, enhance Europe’s global competitiveness, and secure equal access to healthcare for all. Submissions are now open and will close on January 15th 2026. UNITE Digital Health Scottish Information Session: Date:  12 th November 2025  Time:  10:00 - 11:30 am GMT This online information session is hosted by Scottish Enterprise and aimed at Scottish organisations interested in applying for UNITE Digital Health Joint Innovation Projects. The webinar will cover:   An overview of the first UNITE open call The application process Eligibility requirements for Scottish companies The call timeline FAQs UNITE online courses Scottish digital and digital health companies can now access free online courses designed to expand your expertise and connect you with Europe’s most dynamic innovators. UNITE has launched two free-to-access courses: • State of the Art in Innovation in Digital Health and Wellbeing • Leading Digital Health Innovation in Europe.

Highlights from our Occupational Therapy Community Appointment Day On Wednesday, 29 th October, the Rural Centre of Excellence for Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre (DHI) in partnership with Health & Social Care Moray (HSCM) hosted an Occupational Therapy Community Appointment Day at Elgin Community Centre.   The event marks the first step towards an innovative occupational therapy pathway, where individuals currently held on selected OT waiting lists were invited to attend our Community Appointment Day. Individuals had the opportunity to chat 1:1 with Occupational Therapists and trial the online platform AskSARA, to receive help sooner.   Attendees were the first in Moray to trial AskSARA, an innovative online tool designed to improve access to professional Occupational Therapy and support. The platform provides personalised advice on suitable equipment and adaptations to help individuals live more independently.   Individuals praised the event, with one stating: “To feel supported when you have disabilities and know improvements for waiting on services is something so beneficial.”   Lesley Attridge, Locality Manager with HSCM, stated: “I found the event very helpful in being able to connect with the public in person and explore AskSARA with them. It also gave us an opportunity to help them with the struggles they were having with activities of daily living and help solve these on the day. I think it has given us some ideas about what we could do in the future to further tackle the waiting list for Occupational Therapy”.    Our Community Appointment Day was also joined by the Rural Centre of Excellence’s partners, where individuals could drop-in throughout the day to learn about our local support service partnerships and how they can help your live your life your way, as well as helping to shape the future of health and social care services in the region.   Local partners included: Quarriers , Moray Wellbeing Hub , Heart of Moray , Moray Handyman service , Elgin Library , Architype , Health Point and Moray Telecare service.    This event was developed in collaboration with the Rural Centre of Excellence and Health & Social Care Moray- part of a £5 Million investment from the UK Government, delivered through the Moray Growth Deal by the Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre.     To find out more about the RCE and how to get involved visit: RCE - Moray Hub | Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre

Strengthening Scotland’s Global Health Innovation Connections From the 14 th - 16 th  of October, DHI joined international delegates in Dublin for the TCI Global Conference 2025 , a gathering of cluster leaders, policymakers, and innovation experts from around the world. Built around the theme,  “Building a Global Economy,”  the conference showcased how clustering and cluster collaboration can accelerate sustainable growth and drive impact across borders.  Led by InterTradeIreland, in partnership with Enterprise Ireland and Invest Northern Ireland, and supported by the Shared Island Enterprise Scheme, the three-day event enabled DHI to share Scotland’s experience in fostering digital health and care transformation, while learning from international counterparts working at the interface of healthcare, technology, and economic growth. DHI was also delighted to further engage with other Scottish participants from Highlands & Islands Enterprise, Scottish Government and Seafood Scotland Spotlight: Health & Life Science Cluster Tour – Collaboration Across the Island of Ireland   Before the main conference programme began, DHI joined the ‘Health & Life Science Cluster Tour’  in Dundalk, one of four pre-conference learning journeys designed to immerse delegates in local cluster ecosystems.  The tour, hosted by the Dundalk Institute of Technology  (DkIT) and Invest Northern Ireland , explored how the island of Ireland is nurturing an integrated health innovation landscape spanning digital health, life sciences, and medtech.  Delegates heard from a panel of cluster leaders including representatives from Ireland’s Connected Health and Wellbeing Cluster , HIRANI  (Health Innovation Research Alliance Northern Ireland), MedLink Galway , and MET  (Medical and Engineering Technologies Gateway).  Discussions centred on cluster strategies, innovation challenges, and opportunities for convergence across health-related sectors, themes that strongly resonate with Scotland’s own journey in building collaborative, impact-driven innovation ecosystems, enabled by quadruple helix clustering.  Breakout sessions provided a valuable forum for deeper dialogue, exploring topics such as Research & Innovation priorities, SME engagement, and the potential for cross-border and transnational partnerships. For DHI, the day was a chance to benchmark Scotland’s approach to digital health and care innovation and to identify new opportunities for collaboration.    Bringing Global Insights Home to Scotland   Throughout the wider conference, DHI participated in sessions exploring cluster measurement and impact, academic–industry collaboration, and digital innovation for resilient economies. International peers from Europe, North America, and Australasia shared best practice on how data, design, and partnerships can amplify cluster impact, insights that align closely with DHI’s vision for Scotland as a connected, digitally enabled health and care nation.  The conference also reinforced the value of cross-border cooperation. From Ireland’s integrated approach to cluster development supported by its 3 enterprise agencies, to the growing emphasis on innovation ecosystems, TCI 2025 provided insight for how Scotland can continue to collaborate globally while leading locally.

The College Local Innovation Centres (CLIC) project has established specialised Innovation Centres across the region’s 6 colleges. The project, funded by Innovate UK, is aligned with regional economic priorities, and is dedicated to driving digital innovation and productivity across the region’s business base. Support ranges from advisory services to workforce and skills development, as well as hands-on assistance in adopting new technologies, processes, and business models. To date the CLIC partners have supported over 400 businesses across Glasgow, Inverclyde, North and South Lanarkshire, Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire, and West Dunbartonshire. The Centre for Innovation Leadership, hosted at City of Glasgow College will again work in partnership with the Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre offering our second Social Care bootcamp - offering hands-on activities, mentorship and access to tools tailored specifically for businesses operating in the social care industry across Glasgow City Region. Explore digital tools designed to enhance communication, optimise workflows and improve overall care delivery. Adopt and integrate digital solutions into your operations. Foster collaboration amongst care professionals to drive positive transformation within the sector. You can find more details about CLIC at https://www.clic.network/ and read about last year's bootcamp. Interested in registering? You can book your place here: https://forms.office.com/e/c9gdinAU93

Join for the next phase of the Digital Inclusion Programme Learning Exchange. During December 2025 and January 2026 a series of workshops will focus on how digital inclusion can be supported in different services and settings across health and social care. Designed for staff working across health, social care, and wider sectors, these workshops offer practical insights and tools to help embed digital equity into everyday practice. There are two date options per session (please note sessions will not be recorded) . Each interactive session is 90 mins and you can read more about each session and register via the links below: Digital Inclusion & Mental Health: Practitioner Workshop Tuesday 2nd December 9:30 - 11:00 Tuesday 20th January 9:30 - 11:00 Digital Inclusion & Primary Care: Practitioner Workshop Tuesday 2nd December 13:30-15:00 Tuesday 20th January 13:30 - 15:00 Digital Inclusion & Self Management: Practitioner Workshop Thursday 4th December 10:30 - 12:00 Monday 26th January 9:30 - 11:00 Digital Inclusion & Social Care: Practitioner Workshop Monday 8th December 13:30 - 15:00 Wednesday 28th January 13:30 - 15:00 Digital Inclusion & Ethnic Minority Communities: Practitioner Workshop Tuesday 9th December 13:30 - 15:00 Thursday 29th January 10:30 - 12:00 Digital Inclusion & Disability: Practitioner Workshop Wednesday 10th December 11:00 - 12:30 Monday 2nd February 10:00 - 11:30

The National Centre for Remote & Rural Health & Care will continue to deliver its series of online remote and rural learning events for 2025 – 2026.  Sessions are run via MS Teams and will focus on primary and community care.  Please note that sessions are not recorded so attendance is encouraged on the day and you will be provided with a certificate of attendance after each session. Sessions are relevant to a wide range of audiences supporting hybrid/remote working and continuous professional development.  Some sessions are also relevant to community members.  If you are interested in attending, please click on the link in the table below to complete your registration details - you must register for each session.    More information can be found on the Turas Information Hub: National Centre for Remote & Rural Health & Care Series of Learning Events | Turas | Learn ( nhs.scot ) .    Further sessions are being arranged so please revisit the page above regularly for updates.  Session Title   Date Time Registration Link Fundamentals of Research in Remote, Rural & Island Health & Care – Part 2: From Idea to Impact – Sarah-Anne Munoz and Carrie Walton Wednesday 12 November 2025 2.00pm – 3.00pm Click here to Register 16 Days of Activism:  Spider in The Glass - Part 4 - The Spiderlings - Children and The Abusive Relationship   Tuesday 25 November 2025 12.00pm – 2.00pm Click here to Register Embedding the UNCRC (Incorporation) (Scotland) Act 2024   Tuesday 9 December 2025 2.00pm – 3.00pm Click here to Register 16 Days of Activism:  Spider in The Glass - Maintaining the Silence Around Abusive Relationships - In A Remote and Rural Setting Wednesday 10 December 2025 1.00pm – 3.00pm Click here to Register Please get in touch at nes.ruralteam@nhs.scot if you require any further information.

Applications Open: NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme: Empowering Entrepreneurs Across the UK From 3rd to 28th November 2025, applications are open for three transformative programmes designed to support innovation in healthcare: NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme (CEP) Patient Entrepreneur Programme (PEP) Dementia Innovators Programme Delivered by the NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme, the largest entrepreneurial workforce development initiative of its kind, these programmes empower individuals with bold ideas to improve patient care, health outcomes, and system efficiency. Programme Structure Participants benefit from a comprehensive curriculum delivered through four key pillars: Learning CPD-accredited Pit Stops – immersive 2-day educational events delivered in a blended format (online and in person). Workshops and webinars – covering key topics in innovation and entrepreneurship. Mentoring Mentoring – access to experienced mentors across clinical, academic, commercial, and public sectors. 1-to-1 clinics with experts – tailored guidance to support individual innovation journeys. Business planning support – practical advice to help shape and scale ideas. Opportunities International trips and exposure to global innovation ecosystems. Company days and pitching opportunities with industry partners. Networking – facilitated connections with peers, experts, and stakeholders. Community Supportive and inclusive community of healthcare professionals, patients, and entrepreneurs. Access to an online community hub for collaboration and resources. Dedicated support team throughout the programme. Programme Details NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme Who it's for: Open to clinical and non-clinical NHS staff—including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, allied health professionals, managers, and support staff. What it offers: Expert mentoring, bespoke training, networking opportunities, and support to develop and scale innovations within the NHS. Enables staff to pursue entrepreneurial ventures without leaving the health service. Patient Entrepreneur Programme Who it's for: Patients or carers, based in England, with lived experience of a health condition who have developed an innovation to improve care or outcomes. What it offers: Access to the full CEP curriculum, plus tailored support from NHS England’s Patient and Public Involvement team to build the skills, confidence, and networks needed to bring ideas to life. Dementia Innovators Programme Who it's for: Health and social care professionals, across the UK working on solutions to improve the lives of people affected by dementia. What it offers: Delivered in partnership with Alzheimer’s Society, this programme supports dementia-focused innovation through mentorship, education, and a collaborative network of experts and stakeholders. Key Dates Applications open: Monday 3rd November 2025 Applications close: Friday 28th November 2025 Application results: April 2026 Programme start: Spring 2026 Whether you're a frontline NHS worker, a patient with a powerful idea, or a dementia care innovator, these programmes offer a unique opportunity to turn your vision into impact. To Note: There are nine (9) places available for a Scottish cohort for 2026-27. Apply now and be part of the next wave of healthcare transformation. Applications close at 4pm on Friday 28th November 2025, and the programme will commence in Spring 2026. Applicants will be notified in April 2026.

Artificial intelligence is no longer just transforming healthcare - it is reshaping how we work, learn, and lead. As AI becomes increasingly embedded in public services and everyday life, developing the right skills and capabilities is essential to unlocking its full potential. Join us on Friday 7 November for the second webinar in our international series, hosted in collaboration between the Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre and the Centre for e-health at the University of Agder, Norway . This session will focus on the practical side of AI: the skills, tools, and mindsets needed to thrive in an AI-enabled world. During this event, our panel of experts will present insights into key AI competencies for professionals across health and care, on how to build digital confidence and data literacy, as well as offer examples of real-world upskilling initiatives on AI in Scotland and in Norway. By investing in skills and sharing knowledge across borders, we can shape a future where technology enhances human potential and delivers better outcomes for all. This webinar is the second one in a two-part series. The first one focussed on AI from a policy and ethics perspectives. The recordings from the two sessions will be made available at the end of the year. Agenda Time Session Speaker 1100 - 1105 Welcome and Introduction Chair: Carl Erik Moe, Professor, University of Agder 1105 - 1125 Learning to use AI well - What Norway’s health authorities are doing (and what’s next) Sunniva Bjørklund, PhD, Senior Advisor, Department of Innovation, Norwegian Directorate of Health 1125 - 1145 AI and the myths we are told and tell ourselves Marion Logan, Policy Team Lead, Digital Leadership & Capabilities, Digital Health & Care, Scottish Government 1145 - 1210 Learning needs for use of AI tools in Scotland’s health and social care Dr Ann Wales, National Programme Lead for Knowledge & Decision Support, Health Improvement Scotland 1210 - 1235 Ethics and AI Literacy – which competence can secure ethical AI? Leonora O. Bergsjø, Associate Professor, Centre for e-Health, University of Agder 1235 - 1255 Q&A, Panel Discussion All speakers 1255 - 1300 Closing Remarks Chair: Professor Carl Erik Moe, UiA How to register To sign up for this webinar, click the button below to be transported to the Teams registration page:

Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre (DHI) has appointed award-winning sustainable architects Architype to lead the design of a Smart Housing Blueprint, focusing on improving health and wellbeing, and environmental sustainability in rural communities. The Smart Rural Home Blueprint, led by the Digital Health & Care Innovation Centre (DHI) with Built Environment – Smarter Transformation (BE-ST) and the Moray Growth Deal Housing Mix Delivery project, demonstrates how housing can act as a platform for digital health innovation. By embedding connected technologies into the fabric of the home at the point of construction, the project goes beyond traditional housing models to create spaces that support health, wellbeing, and independence—particularly in rural and remote communities. From a digital health perspective, the blueprint represents a shift from reactive to preventative models of care. Integrated systems such as IoT sensors, AI-enabled monitoring, and connection capability to data-sharing platforms, will generate insights into resident health, wellbeing, and environment. These systems support self-management, early intervention, and independent living, reducing pressure on overstretched health and care services. For rural populations, where distance and workforce shortages are significant barriers, the home itself becomes a hub for digitally enabled support, bridging service gaps and reducing inequalities. Evolve Capex and the Alternative UK are key collaborators in the development of the project, linking digital engagement with the wider social and economic benefits associated with rural digital health and smart home technology. It also advances Scotland’s ambitions for low-carbon housing, as homes are designed to be both energy efficient and digitally connected from the start. The integration of renewable energy systems and modular construction methods ensures the homes contribute directly to climate action while supporting the delivery of digital-first care models. The blueprint will be delivered through immersive tools such as VR walkthroughs and interactive 3D models, making the vision tangible for policymakers, developers, care providers, and citizens. It will also serve as a catalyst for further research, student engagement, and investment in digital health innovation. This project is part of a £5M initiative funded by the UK Government and delivered by DHI’s Rural Centre of Excellence through the Moray Growth Deal. This investment focuses on advancing research and innovation in digital health, aiding the remobilisation of health and social care services in the region. Professor Margaret Whoriskey MBE, Head of DHI’s Innovation for Care and Wellbeing said: “DHI is delighted to be working with Architype in collaboration with Moray Council and BE-ST innovation centre to deliver an innovative digital blueprint for a ‘smart’ house. This provides a significant opportunity for Moray but also wider in Scotland and beyond to lever in the benefits of digital technology to support people in their own homes.” Christina Gaiger- Associate Director, Architype said: "Architype is thrilled to bring together our expertise in sustainability, healthcare, and housing, in collaboration with a diverse and dynamic team. This project offers a unique opportunity to inject fresh thinking into a vital area of research—supporting the long-term future of health and social care in housing for generations to come.” Gordon Bain, Evolve Capex Director said: “The Smart Rural Home of the Future is more than a building, it’s a platform for health, sustainability, and community. By weaving in digital-first tools and new models of delivery, we can unlock opportunities for rural Scotland that ripple far beyond housing.