The Department of Health recently launched the Allied Health Professions' Research and Innovation Strategy for Northern Ireland.

It was developed to support specialist research and professional development for Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) in the relevant framework of the HSC in Northern Ireland.

AHPs work in a range of surroundings including hospitals, people's homes, clinics, surgeries and schools.

They work in partnership with health and social care colleagues across primary, secondary and social care, as well as in the independent and voluntary sectors.

This strategy - the first of its kind in Northern Ireland - will provide support for development opportunities and careers in research and leadership roles for all AHPs.

It will help AHPs at all stages of their careers to engage in research, helping to break down barriers to research activity and build a stronger research culture.

Maria McIlgorm, Chief Nursing Officer, says the publication of the research and innovation strategy marks the launch of a coordinated and focused campaign to improve opportunities for our AHP professionals.

"This Strategy directly addresses the need for relevant and appropriately  differentiated support and development opportunities to be available to all AHPs, whatever their discipline, professional association membership, or employment context.

"With an oversight from the Department of Health in Northern Ireland, the delivery for this Strategy will be driven forwards in a strong coproduction approach across the AHP associations."

The full Strategy document is available online via the Department's website.