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Majority of Brits Use Social Media to Foster Local Connections

Over half of Brits now rely on social media to feel connected to their local community, a recent study has found.

In total, 74% of Brits reported having spoken with their neighbours recently, with one in four considering their neighbours as friends.

This reflects a positive trend towards individuals seeking more personal connections within their immediate surroundings.

The research, conducted among 2,000 adults by Playsee, the social media platform focused on neighbourhood-centric connectivity and discovery, highlighted that staying close to our local community remains important for many, with social media playing a significant role in how we connect with our neighbours.

Neighbours engage in conversations about a wide range of topics, with family matters and the ever-relevant weather topping the list at 45% and 44%, respectively. Additionally, a notable 77% of participants discussed local news and issues, indicating a strong sense of community and shared interest in neighbourhood affairs.

While social media often faces criticism for its negative effects, it also plays a vital role in bringing communities together.

In fact, over half of Brits feel they learn more about their local community on social media than in person, demonstrating how the evolving digital world is drawing communities closer together. Many now rely more on social media platforms, such as WhatsApp or Facebook groups, to stay informed about local happenings.

When asked about the biggest advantages of social media engagement with neighbours, 39% appreciate being able to keep up with local news and stay informed about their immediate surroundings, 28% value the convenience and efficiency of connecting with nearby friends and neighbours, and 21% relish the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and shared interests.

This also extends beyond friendly chats to supporting the local economy. When asked if social platforms can help small businesses build relationships with local customers and increase foot traffic, a notable 78% responded positively.

Veronica Lin of Playsee commented: “There’s no denying that communities are an important part of our lives, and it’s great to see from the study that the strong community bonds that were strengthened during the pandemic haven’t deteriorated, but in fact continue to play an important role.

“But despite us living in close proximity, we’re not all able to connect in real life as much as we’d like to, with meaningful interactions over the proverbial “garden fence” less frequent. At Playsee, we believe that community is at the heart of our local experiences, it elevates where we live from somewhere transient, to somewhere we call home. With its unique Community feature, Playsee is revitalising local connections and bringing neighbours together. Whether it’s catching up over a cup of tea or sharing a love for a Sunday roast, Playsee is all about fostering genuine connections with those around us.”

Playsee is more than just another social media app; it’s a catalyst for building genuine connections and fostering a sense of community. Launched in the UK in 2023, Playsee has gained over 1 billion user engagements and has 50 million downloads worldwide, bringing people closer to their real-life community.

Playsee is free and available to download on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store on Android and iOS systems.

2 Fellaz Podcast: Candid Conversations on Men’s Mental Health

In a podcasting world dominated by polished celebrity shows, “2 Fellaz” stands out with its raw, unfiltered truth. Hosted by Dave, a private chef whose life was altered by a devastating house fire, and Steve, a marketing CEO who endured childhood abuse by his stepfather from the age of six, this podcast brings their deeply personal conversations to the public, highlighting men’s mental health issues.

Recorded in Dave’s living room, where Dave and Steve found comfort, each episode of “2 Fellaz” is a live, unedited conversation. This unique approach mirrors the real-time processing of emotions and experiences that many men face but rarely discuss openly.

“2 Fellaz” provides a safe space for men to explore a wide range of topics—love, work-life balance, happiness, ageing, trauma, and mental health—through the perspectives and personal stories of two unique individuals. The podcast is unscripted, unrehearsed, and untouched by post-production, making listeners feel as though they’re part of the conversation with Dave and Steve.

“Our podcast was born from the need to cope with our pasts and the realisation that talking openly could help others,” says Dave. “It’s unscripted, unrehearsed, and untouched by post-production—qualities that make our listeners feel like they’re right there with us, in the living room, part of the conversation.”

Steve adds, “This is about creating a space where men can hear their own fears and challenges echoed in our stories. Having been abused by my stepfather from the age of six, I have yet to find a professional person who truly understands my trauma. There are many amazing professionals with degrees, but their lack of lived experience often leaves a gap. This podcast strips away the gloss and gets to the heart of what it means to struggle, to survive, and to support one another.”

“2 Fellaz” has resonated with listeners across the UK, with many reaching out to share their own experiences and traumas. This connection underscores the podcast’s relatability and the importance of its mission.

Highlights from Recent Episodes:

  • Episode 1: Love (1 March 2024) – Dave and Steve discuss the multifaceted nature of love, sharing personal anecdotes and lessons from their own relationships.
  • Episode 2: Work-Life Balance (8 March 2024) – The hosts explore the challenges of balancing professional ambitions with personal fulfilment, offering practical advice and humorous insights.
  • Episode 3: Happiness (15 March 2024) – A deep dive into what happiness truly means, with tips on finding joy in everyday life.
  • Episode 4: Getting Old (22 March 2024) – The realities and humour of ageing, featuring candid reflections on their own experiences.
  • Episode 5: Parenting (29 March 2024) – Heartfelt discussions on the ups and downs of fatherhood, with stories that resonate with every parent.
  • Episode 6: Age & Death (5 April 2024) – Tackling the heavy topics of mortality and the passage of time, with a balance of sensitivity and humour.
  • Episode 7: Trauma (12 April 2024) – A pivotal episode where Dave and Steve open up about their own traumatic experiences, fostering a deeper connection with their listeners.
  • Episode 8: Limiting Beliefs (19 April 2024) – Discussing the self-imposed barriers that hold us back and how to overcome them.
  • Episode 9: Suicide & Loneliness (26 April 2024) – A candid conversation about suicidal thoughts and the importance of seeking help and supporting one another.
  • Episode 10: Sex (3 May 2024) – An open discussion on sexual health and intimacy, breaking down taboos and promoting healthy conversations.
  • Episode 11: Male Stereotypes (10 May 2024) – Examining the pressures and expectations placed on men, and how to navigate and challenge these stereotypes.
  • Episode 12: Influence of Father Figures (17 May 2024) – Reflecting on the impact of father figures and the lessons learned from them.
  • Episode 13: The Mrs (23 May 2024) – Sharing insights and stories about relationships with significant others.
  • Episode 14: Checking In (30 May 2024) – The importance of mental health check-ins and staying connected with oneself and others.
  • Episode 15: Money (6 June 2024) – Discussing financial pressures, budgeting, and the impact of money on mental health.
  • Episode 16: Sea King Helicopters in Copenhagen (13 June 2024) – A humorous and adventurous episode where Dave and Steve delve into a peculiar story involving Sea King helicopters in Copenhagen, blending comedy with reflections on the unexpected twists in life.
  • Episode 17: Euthanasia (20 June 2024) – A sensitive discussion on the ethics and personal views surrounding euthanasia.
  • Episode 18: Checking In… ft Rory Hodges (27 June 2024) – A special guest episode with Rory Hodges, focusing on mental health and personal growth.

Join the Conversation:

The “2 Fellaz” podcast is available on all major streaming platforms starting 1 March 2024. Subscribe today to join Dave and Steve on their journey through the highs and lows of modern life, and be part of a community that values authenticity, humour, and real talk.

Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more:

Supporting Local Businesses: The Value of Choosing Local Car Repair Services

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In today’s economic climate, supporting local businesses has become increasingly vital. When it comes to car body repairs in Manchester, opting for a local service provider not only guarantees quality and trust but also contributes significantly to the local economy. Today I wanted to introduce you to Axioma, a platform that collaborates with top-tier local, independent repair suppliers, and which strives to offer a reliable, local car body repair solution. From minor scratches to dented bumpers, Axioma connects customers with tried and tested technicians known for their exceptional service.

Quality Car Repair Services by Axioma

Axioma distinguishes itself in the market as the only platform to gather hundreds of local repair technicians. The care and pride that these technicians put into their work is reflected in numerous positive reviews highlighting their expertise and professionalism. One customer mentioned how Axioma restored their Mazda 3 to its former glory, praising the “very reasonable price and great service.” Such feedback underscores Axioma’s dedication to providing high-quality repairs at competitive prices.

Another customer expressed appreciation for the quick turnaround time, stating, “The repair was completed within three hours.” This level of efficiency, combined with meticulous attention to detail, ensures that customers receive their vehicles back in pristine condition. Whether it’s minor car scratch repair in Manchester or addressing minor car body damage, Axioma’s network of local experts is equipped to handle it all with precision and care.

Axioma also excels in transparency and communication, which are critical factors for customers when choosing a repair service. One customer noted how they were kept informed throughout the repair process, which helped build trust and assurance. This commitment to customer service sets Axioma apart in a crowded market.

Bumper and Dent Repair

Axioma’s expertise extends to specialised services like bumper and dent repair. The platform connects customers with professionals who excel in fixing everything from dented bumpers to minor dents. One review highlighted how Axioma expertly repaired a broken bumper and fixed a turn signal light problem at no extra charge. “Great people, great specialists,” the customer noted, emphasising the skill and dedication of Axioma’s network.

Another satisfied customer shared their experience of having a sill dent repaired, which other companies had quoted exorbitant prices for or recommended writing off the car. Axioma fixed it promptly and to a high standard, demonstrating their capability in handling even the most challenging dent repairs. Whether it’s bumper scuff repair in Manchester or paintless dent removal, Axioma ensures that your car looks as good as new without incurring excessive costs.

Axioma’s network also includes specialists in paintless dent removal, a technique that saves both time and money while preserving your car’s original finish. This service is particularly popular among customers who want to maintain their vehicle’s value without the need for costly paint jobs. The emphasis on high-quality, affordable repairs is a recurring theme in customer feedback, further establishing Axioma as a trusted name in local car body repair.

Moreover, Axioma offers a mobile repair service, bringing the expertise directly to the customer’s location. This convenience is highly appreciated by customers who may have busy schedules or prefer to avoid the hassle of taking their car to a repair shop. The ability to provide high-quality repairs at the customer’s doorstep further enhances the value proposition of Axioma’s services.

Why Supporting Local Matters

Choosing local businesses for car body repairs offers numerous benefits, and Axioma exemplifies this by supporting local independent repairers across various sublocations such as Altrincham, Carrington, Leigh, Prestwich, Rochdale, Stockport, Urmston, and Worsley. By partnering with local experts, Axioma not only provides top-quality repair services but also helps local businesses thrive.

Supporting local businesses fosters a sense of community and ensures the robustness of the local economy. Axioma’s commitment to partnering with independent repair suppliers guarantees that customers receive personalised and attentive service. This local approach means that you are not just another number; you are a valued customer whose satisfaction is paramount.

In a city as vibrant and diverse as Manchester, local businesses play a crucial role in maintaining the area’s unique character and charm. Axioma’s smart repair people are integral to this fabric, offering reliable and professional car body repair services that locals can trust. By choosing Axioma, you contribute to the local economy while receiving exceptional service.

Moreover, supporting local businesses like Axioma helps to reduce environmental impact. Local services typically mean shorter travel distances, which reduces carbon emissions. Additionally, many local repair technicians employed by Axioma are committed to sustainable practices, using eco-friendly materials and methods whenever possible. This dedication to sustainability resonates with many environmentally conscious Mancunians.

Axioma also invests in the local community by providing training and development opportunities for local technicians. This not only improves the quality of service but also creates job opportunities and supports the local workforce. By nurturing local talent, Axioma helps build a stronger, more resilient community.

Conclusion

The importance of supporting local businesses cannot be overstated. In Manchester, Axioma exemplifies the benefits of choosing local for car body repairs. Their commitment to quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction makes them a standout choice. Furthermore, by partnering with local, independent repairers, Axioma supports the local economy and fosters a sense of community. For those seeking top-notch car body repair services in Manchester, Axioma presents a compelling option. Get a quote from Axioma today and discover why so many trust them for quality repairs.

Supporting local businesses like Axioma not only ensures superior repairs but also helps keep communities thriving. Choose Axioma for your car body repair needs and be part of something greater.

Insights into the UK’s Gaming Trends: A Data Analysis

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The gambling industry in the United Kingdom is improving with great trends impacting various market aspects. One of the most notable shifts is the high growth of online gambling. The revenue from online gambling in the UK is projected to reach $13.78 billion in 2024, growing steadily annually. The increase is largely attributed to the widespread use of mobile devices and the internet, which have made gambling more accessible and appealing, particularly to younger demographics. The average age of online gamblers is 34, significantly lower than traditional casino visitors.

A key driver behind this growth is the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and mobile advertising. AI enhances the user experience by personalizing gaming content and providing real-time interactions through features like live dealers and virtual reality environments. These innovations have made online gambling platforms more engaging, attracting a broader audience.

Different segments within the gambling industry are experiencing varied trends. Sports betting remains highly popular, with micro-betting gaining popularity. This form of betting allows players to place wagers on specific events within a game, offering a more dynamic betting experience. Lotteries remain a favorite among many, with innovations in game formats and the rise of online ticket purchases maintaining consumer interest.

Technological and Market Trends

The gambling industry in the UK is experiencing rapid technological advancements, significantly impacting market dynamics. The integration of blockchain technology is gaining traction due to its transparency and security benefits, enhancing trust in online gambling platforms.

Additionally, the adoption of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) is revolutionizing the user experience by offering more immersive gaming environments. These technologies are expected to attract a broader audience and drive further growth in the online sector.

Mobile gambling is another key trend, with a substantial increase in users accessing gambling platforms via smartphones. The shift is primarily driven by younger demographics, who favor the convenience and accessibility of mobile gambling. As of 2023, around 50% of online gamblers accessed gambling sites using their smartphones. The increased penetration of smartphones and advancements in mobile technology are expected to continue driving this trend, contributing to the projected growth of the online gambling market at a compound annual growth rate of 6.7% through 2027.

While recovering from the pandemic’s impact, the land-based sector is showing signs of stability. Despite a decline in the number of betting shops and other gambling premises, the sector’s GGY has seen increases. For instance, non-remote betting generated £2.5 billion in GGY, a 15.4% increase from the previous period. This recovery is crucial for maintaining the sector’s contribution to employment and local economies, especially in regions heavily reliant on tourism and retail.

Innovations in Gambling Technologies

One of the major trends in the gambling industry is the increased use of artificial intelligence (AI). AI enhances the experience at the best online casinos by analyzing player behavior, predicting preferences, and offering personalized recommendations. Casino operators use AI to create custom bonuses and promotions tailored to individual needs, boosting player engagement and enhancing satisfaction and loyalty. AI-powered chatbots provide instant, context-aware customer support, improving the user experience.

Players may engage with the casino and other players in real time by using VR casinos like SlotsMillion, which provide a 360-degree perspective of the gaming area. This degree of immersion fills the social void left by internet gambling, bridging the gap between virtual and real-world casinos.

Economic Contributions

The UK gambling industry continues to play a significant role in the economy. From April 2022 to March 2023, the total Gross Gambling Yield (GGY) for the sector was estimated at £15.1 billion, marking a 6.8% increase compared to the previous year. This growth underscores the industry’s resilience, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which substantially impacted many sectors.

The online gambling sector contributed a significant portion of this revenue, with the Remote Casino, Betting, and Bingo (RCBB) sector generating £6.5 billion, a 2.8% increase from the previous year. This growth was driven by the popularity of online casino games, which accounted for £4 billion of the GGY, with slots games being particularly lucrative.

In addition to generating substantial revenues, the gambling industry supports various economic activities. It is a major employer, with over 110,000 jobs directly linked to the sector. The industry’s contribution to public finances is also notable, with around £4.2 billion generated in taxes.

Furthermore, the industry provides significant funding for various sports through sponsorships and levies. For instance, it contributes approximately £350 million to horseracing and £40 million to the English Football League and its clubs.

Conclusion

The UK gambling industry is at a crossroads, balancing growth opportunities with the need for responsible gambling practices. The insights from current data and analysis provide a comprehensive understanding of the trends shaping this dynamic market, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Aira opens its first North West clean energy-technology hub

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Swedish clean energy-tech company Aira, has officially opened its new hub in Manchester.

The centre will create hundreds of highly skilled jobs in the North West, contributing to Aira’s overall goal of hiring 8,000 clean energy expert roles across the UK over the next decade.  

Earlier this year, Aira’s market research found that over one in three people based in the North West (39%) were likely to install a heat pump in their home when renovating their home or replacing their heating system, showing a growing consumer interest in clean energy solutions.

Local authorities are also supporting the clean energy transition, with both the GMCA and the LCRCA’s ambitious net zero targets set at 2038 and 2040 respectively, aligning well with Aira’s ambition to take Europe off gas by accelerating the electrification of residential heating. 

Aira’s new base in Trafford will operate as the company’s centre of operations in the North-West under the leadership of Marc Clarke, who joined Aira in 2023 and has over 20 years’ experience in the home heating sector.

The existing team of Clean Energy Technicians have installed thousands of heat pumps throughout their careers and new roles will include planners, salespeople, designers, customer service agents, heat pump installers, apprenticeships and new positions in the local leadership team.  

Marc Clarke, Aira head of region, North West said: “The opening of our North West hub marks a crucial step toward Aira’s ambition to serve one million homes across the UK with clean energy-tech solutions.

“The North-West region is rich with skilled workers, all the way from the Lake District to Stoke, making it a natural fit for our hub location. We’re excited to help people across the region transition to low-carbon heat pumps, helping them save money on their heating costs, while reducing CO2 emissions.” 

 

Work starts to deliver biggest padel club in the North

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Construction of the biggest Padel facility in the North of England has started on site in TraffordCity, Manchester.

Planning for The Padel Club’s £2.5 million facility in TraffordCity was approved by Trafford Council in April.

Regeneration specialists Peel Waters, who have been working in partnership with The Padel Club on the landmark club have already started work on clearing the site.

Wellness design experts Zynk Design have been appointed for the interiors, exteriors and social spaces of The Padel Club.

The Padel Club TraffordCity will have 11 purpose-built and high specification courts of which; nine will be covered courts and two will be open air courts; offering year-round playing which isn’t weather dependent.

State-of-the-art Sports LED lighting will illuminate each court, guaranteeing optimal visibility for players during evening sessions.

Spectatorship and involvement will also be encouraged at this new facility, with a range of seating areas surrounding the courts being installed to maximise the viewer experience, providing comfortable spots for spectators to enjoy matches and tournaments.

Kris Ball, founder and CEO of The Padel Club (pictured left) said: “After working towards establishing our TraffordCity site for so long, it is incredibly exciting to see work progressing on site. We are now full steam ahead and working hard to get the site built and operational at the earliest opportunity. As we’ve said before, there really isn’t a better leisure destination in the UK and we are looking forward to being a thriving social hub amongst so many other great businesses.”

James Whittaker, managing director of Peel Waters (pictured right) said: “We’re committed to offering a sport for everyone at TraffordCity and with Padel being one of the fastest growing and inclusive sports in the UK; this new facility will add another quality experience to the already amazing offering in this remarkable destination.”

Former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan, who is an original investor in The Padel Club said: “It’s great to see that construction has started at the Club’s TraffordCity site. We are very excited for the build, it will have more courts to attract more Padel players and once completed; having many players enjoying the sociability at TraffordCity.

 The build programme is expected to take approximately 20 weeks with completion of the site expected for January 2025.

 

England v Pakistan: Hosts run riot in fourth T20I at The Oval

England signed off for the T20 World Cup in style by thrashing Pakistan at The Oval.

The hosts are looking to defend their title in the Caribbean and will kick off the opening match of the tournament against Scotland on Tuesday.

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And they head out full of confidence after scoring a 2-0 series win over their rivals, including a seven-wicket thrashing in the fourth innings.

England bowled Pakistan all out for 157 before cruising to the target after just 15.3 overs.

There were some excellent performances on the field and fans will be encouraged to see players hitting form at exactly the right moment.

It took the combined efforts of Phil Salt, captain Jos Buttler and Jonny Bairstow to complete the batting for England.

Salt and Buttler put together a partnership of 82 runs in 6.2 overs before Bairstow came in to drive things home with a respectable 28.

In the opening round, England took no time to get going with the ball in their hands.

Mark Wood was on fire, bowling 2-35 alongside Jofra Archer.

Pakistan batsmen Babar Azam and Muhammed Rizwan did settle things down for the visitors but the former was caught with the final ball of the powerplay to dent their confidence.

It saw Pakistan fall to 82-5 and Liam Livingstone swung the match in his side’s favour by getting rid of Usman Khan for 38.

His two wickets alongside Adil Rashid were enough to restrict Pakistan to a low score and it was a breeze after that for England.

Their dominant win sets them up for an exciting World Cup.

Salt gave his assessment to the BBC after the match, saying: “It is [my job to go out and smack it]. To be fair, I think that’s everyone’s job.

“I would have liked to be a bit more clinical but that’s the game, I was taking the positive option and trying to take us forward.

“No real message. I’ve played a lot with Jos now, we’ve got a good understanding. He knows the right time to feed something but it’s very relaxed.

“I like playing in the West Indies but I’ve really enjoyed this home series. Very much looking forward to being back in Barbados.”

Hopes will be high and there should not be a repeat of their awful 50-over title defence from last year.

England’s confidence in T20 is matching the levels that saw them win the tournament in Melbourne 18 months ago.

If they can get off to a good start in Barbados, there is no reason why they cannot repeat their success.

French Open: Alcohol banned from stands at Roland Garros

Alcohol can no longer be taken into the stands at the French Open in a bid to stamp out crowd disorder, according to tournament director Amelie Mauresmo.

The decision was taken in the wake of David Goffin having chewing gum spat at him during his clash with home favourite Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, with the Belgian likening the scenes to a football crowd.

Defending champion Iga Swiatek had to implore fans to keep quiet during points and not shout out after her win over Naomi Osaka on Wednesday.

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A press briefing was scheduled at Roland Garros on Thursday where Mauresmo said: “First of all, we are happy people are very enthusiastic about watching tennis and being part of the matches, showing feeling and emotions.

“But there are definitely steps which shouldn’t go further. A few things have needed to be put in place. Alcohol has been allowed up until now in the stands – but that’s over.”

Alcohol will remain available on the concourses and around the grounds.

Mauresmo said chair umpires will be appointed based upon the potential for unruly behaviour and will be stricter in asking for respect from spectators.

Mauresmo said umpires will have the discretion to decide if behaviour crosses a line, but if fans ‘go too far, they are out.’

“If people want to show emotion that’s great and see how it happens,” she added. “I’m an optimist and I think people will react in a good way. If not we will take more measures.”

Poor weather in Paris this week has also led to the start of play on Friday being brought forward to 10am (9am BST) on Friday in a bid to make up a backlog of second round games.

TransPennine Express to increase services between Manchester and York

TransPennine Express (TPE) is set to increase services between Manchester and York, with a service every two hours now running until early evening.
The train operator has added four services a day between the two cities, which will also call at Deighton, Mirfield, Wakefield Kirkgate, Normanton, and Castleford.

This route was reinstated by TPE December 2023, and was the first-time direct passenger trains had travelled between Castleford and York in more than 50 years.

The new timetable will be brought in from Sunday, along with the rest of the national rail network.

While the majority of services will stay the same, changes across TPE’s network will include:

  • 40 services per day along the West Coast Mainline (Manchester Airport/Liverpool Lime Street to Edinburgh/Glasgow Central)
  • Additional summer weekend services between York and Scarborough for trips to the seaside
  • Later additional services between Liverpool and Manchester for people wanting to enjoy an evening out

Chris Jackson, managing director at TransPennine Express, said: “We’re pleased to be able to offer these extra services for our customers.

“While most of our timetable will stay the same, we urge customers to check before they travel in case there are any slight changes to their services.”

For more information about individual services, customers should use the ‘Check My Timetable’ feature on TPE’s website.

Chris added: “Our number one priority is providing a consistent and reliable service for customers, and this timetable will allow us to continue to do so, while also bringing more benefits to customers.

“We have significantly reduced cancellations to services, and we will continue to make improvements.”

Tameside Hospital increases MRI capacity with new suite installation

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Tameside Hospital is expanding its inhouse MRI capacity thanks to some last-minute funding, and its long-term partner, Canon Medical Systems UK.

With 2.5 million more people in England projected to be living with major illness by 2040, increasing diagnostic imaging capacity has never been more important.

Playing a critical role in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as cancer, as well as many neurological and heart conditions, the demand for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is at an all-time high.

However, currently the UK has far fewer MRI scanners than nearly any other comparable country.

To address this increasing demand, Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust, collaborated with its partner of 20 years, to expand its in-house MRI capacity.

Utilising last-minute funding awarded to Greater Manchester from the NHS, the hospital leveraged its long-term relationship with Canon Medical to design and deliver a bespoke, purpose-built MRI suite that will serve as a permanent solution for the hospital.

The integrated modular unit, consisting of two modules to accommodate waiting and changing rooms, houses Canon Medical’s Vantage Orian MRI system, a second MRI scanner for the hospital.

Replacing a separate external mobile unit situated in the car park, the new unit allows clinical staff to serve in-patients, as well as emergency and outpatients, within the main hospital – something that had previously not been possible.

Jennifer Riley, cross-sectional (CT/MRI) service lead radiographer at Tameside Hospital, said: “This wasn’t just a case of procuring MRI equipment to meet increasing demand. Careful consideration needed to be given to where the new system would be housed to meet the needs of both our in-patients and outpatients.

“Working with Canon Medical, we needed a permanent solution to increase MRI capacity within a very tight timeframe to meet the requirements of our funding. Ensuring accessibility and a positive patient experience, both during and post-installation, was crucial. The new suite needed to feel like part of the existing site without changing the fabric of the building. During construction, we worked hard to ensure minimal disruption to patient services.”

Matthew Kilheeney, radiology manager at Tameside Hospital, said: “At the onset of the pandemic when demand peaked and Covid restrictions were in place, Canon Medical provided us with a mobile CT scanner to increase capacity and support social distancing.

“So, when faced with the challenge of building a whole new suite, we knew we could turn to Canon Medical to help execute the whole project. They helped us roll out an end-to-end solution in under nine months – from sourcing equipment to designing and building the unit to house the MRI system.”

Over many years, Canon Medical has provided the trust with numerous diagnostic imaging solutions – including two Ultrasound systems, a fluoroscopy room and three tomography scanners.  The CT scanners feature a modular viewing platform that unifies workflows, enabling greater diagnostic productivity.