A Resounding Success: Highlights from the VerseOne NHS Winter Conference

The VerseOne NHS Winter Educational Conference brought together digital leaders, communicators, and innovators from across the NHS for a day of insightful discussion, shared learning, and practical inspiration. Against the backdrop of ongoing pressures facing the health service, the conference focused on one clear ambition: how NHS organisations can truly do more with less—without compromising staff wellbeing, accessibility, or quality of care.

From packed breakout sessions to a standout panel discussion, the energy and engagement throughout the day made it clear just how important these conversations are right now.

Doing More with Less: Technology That Empowers People

One of the most impactful moments of the conference was the panel session exploring how organisations can make smarter use of digital tools while continuing to support and retain their people.

Our expert speakers shared real-world experiences and practical examples covering:

How AI and co-pilot tools are already reducing workload, streamlining processes, and delivering meaningful efficiencies across NHS teams
The importance of clear, multi-channel communication, ensuring messages reach the right people at the right time
The critical role of accessibility in digital procurement, so systems are intuitive, inclusive, and usable for everyone
The value of training and ongoing support, helping staff feel confident and empowered rather than overwhelmed by technology
The discussion reinforced a shared commitment to building workplaces where digital transformation puts people first. The insights sparked thoughtful debate and conversations that continued well beyond the session itself.

A huge thank you goes to Nicola Saunders, Chris Hughes, Martyn Rollins, and Laura Donaldson, as well as everyone who took part your openness and engagement made this a true highlight of the conference.

Celebrating and Engaging Staff Through Digital Communication

Breakout Session 2 turned the spotlight firmly onto people, with a focus on staff rewards, recognition, and engagement.

Laura Donaldson, Head of Digital Communication at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, shared how digital communication can be used to celebrate achievements, recognise contributions, and build connection across large and complex organisations. Drawing on over a decade of NHS experience, Laura demonstrated how storytelling, creativity, and thoughtful digital strategy can have a real and lasting impact on staff morale.

She was joined by Dun Stock, Digital Editor at University Hospitals Sussex, who brought valuable insight into creating user-friendly digital experiences. From intranet transformation to carefully designed user journeys, Dun highlighted how strong digital foundations support engagement, recognition, and trust.

Together, they showed how recognising staff through digital channels isn't just “nice to have”—it's a powerful tool for retention, culture, and wellbeing.

Unlocking the Power of a Unified Digital Experience

Another standout session explored the benefits of a unified Digital Experience Platform (DXP).

Julian Beeton, Head of Content and Channels at Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust, shared how bringing websites, intranets, and digital tools together into a single, cohesive platform can transform the way organisations communicate and collaborate.

With over 20 years' experience in the NHS, Julian showcased how integration drives efficiency and creativity—reducing duplication, improving content governance, and enabling innovation. Highlights included the development of a first-of-its-kind Power App for capturing and storing clinical images, demonstrating how the right digital infrastructure can directly support better outcomes.

Looking Ahead

The VerseOne NHS Winter Conference was a powerful reminder that while challenges remain, there is no shortage of innovation, passion, and expertise across the NHS. From AI and accessibility to staff recognition and unified digital platforms, the conference showcased practical ways organisations can move forward—smarter, more inclusive, and more human-centred.

Thank you to all our speakers, attendees, and partners who made the event such a success. Together, we're driving meaningful digital transformation that empowers people, supports staff wellbeing, and helps the NHS thrive—this winter and beyond.