LSBU wins award in recognition for its commitment to bridge healthcare gaps

London South Bank University (LSBU) has won the 'Outstanding Contribution to Local Community' award at the Times Higher Education Awards 2024 for its innovative approach to tackling high blood pressure among at-risk groups.

Led by Professor Nicola Thomas, who is Professor of Kidney Care at our School of Nursing and Midwifery, the project focuses on reaching individuals from black, Asian, and minority ethnic communities, who are disproportionately affected by high blood pressure. Factors such as genetic predisposition, lack of awareness, and distrust in traditional healthcare services contribute to these groups being at greater risk. These initiatives focus on offering free blood pressure checks and expert advice, aimed at promoting awareness and early prevention.

The project, run by LSBU and Croydon BME Forum trained barbers who have customers from around South London to provide on-the-spot blood pressure checks along with their regular trim in a bid to tackle undiagnosed health issues. The initiative aimed to reach Black and Asian men who have undiagnosed high blood pressure.

Reflecting on her experience, Professor Thomas shared: "Millions of adults in the UK have high blood pressure and half are undiagnosed which can lead to strokes or heart attacks. As a kidney nurse, I have seen first-hand the impact of poor blood pressure control on individuals and their families. Our community projects in Southwark and Croydon aim to reach those who might not be aware of the risks of having high blood pressure, such as stroke, heart attack, or kidney disease in later life. It is critical that people know what they can do to help themselves."

Professor Tara Dean, Provost of LSBU, said: "We are delighted to be recognised for our contribution to the local community. This is testament to LSBU's commitment to providing practical health support to people, staff, and students, while supporting the local community with real-world solutions."

Recognising the importance of engaging people outside of traditional NHS settings, LSBU works closely with voluntary organisations and local communities in Southwark and Croydon. The project has taken a fresh approach, such as running outreach events at barbershops in Croydon and engaging student nurse Community Ambassadors in Southwark to connect with the public on campus.

This was the 20th anniversary of the Times Higher Education Awards 2024 - which have been likened to the "Oscars of higher education". This year's ceremony focused on achievements at UK and Irish institutions during 2022-23 and was held in Birmingham.

LSBU received four nominations in the Times Higher Education Awards 2024 shortlist including Outstanding Entrepreneurial University of the Year, Outstanding Contribution to Environmental Leadership and Outstanding Support for Students.

These follow the Times Higher Education impact rankings who named us as top three in the world for reducing inequality.