The MediWales Innovation Awards celebrate the fantastic achievements of life science companies and individuals from the NHS in Wales. A priority sector in a tough economy, Welsh industry's innovative partnerships with the NHS and academic institutions significantly contribute to the health and wealth of Wales.

The NHS partnership with Industry Award went to Aneurin Bevan Health Board's Intellectual Property Group for their collaboration with Monmouth based E2L design consultancy to produce the 'Easy Vein Access' medical device. The product increases the size and accessibility of veins prior to cannulation, improving the success rate of insertion and so reducing patient distress and nursing time. Currently in its pilot trial stages, the device could reduce NHS costs considerably through savings in consumables and waste disposal. This Award is sponsored by the Welsh Government's National Institute of Social Care and Health Research (NISCHR). Directors of E2L, Lyndon Owen and Maurice Thompson, were delighted that they have been recognised for their years of collaborative work with the NHS and clinicians throughout the world.

Baroness Ilora Finlay of Llandaff opened the ceremony presenting the Industry Innovation Award, with a further seven prestigious awards presented to industry, and two to NHS Wales departments.

The MediWales-commissioned Welsh life science sector film, 'Unrivalled Connectivity', was launched at the Innovation Awards. The film depicts the unrivalled connectivity between Wales' industry, academic, NHS and professional services organisations, which enables the fast, effective development of innovative healthcare solutions.

The 300-guest Awards Dinner, sponsored by Welsh Government's life sciences sector team, the National Institute for Social Care and Health Research (NISCHR), Abel & Imray, Geldards LLP, GX Group, eHealth Industries Innovation Centre (ehi2), and Sony UK Tec, was held at Cardiff's City Hall on Tuesday 11th December to an audience of senior industry, NHS and government representatives.