A Researcher from Bradford has had his works and efforts recognised by one of the leading scientists in the UK.

Shahid Islam, who works as a Senior Research Fellow at the Bradford Institute for Health Research, was awarded the ‘2021 Chief Scientific Officer’s Excellence in Healthcare Science Research and Innovation Award’;  he also received a letter from the Chief Scientific Officer, congratulating him on his achievement.

Shahid, vice-chair of community group, Bradford 4 Better was nominated by his colleagues at the institute.

“I’m grateful for this award, I didn’t expect it and I don’t do this work for recognition but it’s nice that I was honoured with this award.

“Being nominated by my colleagues makes this even more special, and I appreciate it because it shows that my efforts are valued.

“I’m really passionate about my work and this award highlights how important the work I'm doing is.

"I consider myself a Researcher who is primarily a community activist who has managed to find a way to combine these two passions."

His project 'Act Early' looks to tackle health issues before they stem, identifying three key issues that impact health and how they can be adapted and developed to help people.

The three areas identified are: making better use of green spaces, healthy livelihood, and healthy living.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Shahid Islam with his award, presented to him by Professor John WrightShahid Islam with his award, presented to him by Professor John Wright

Shahid’s research looks to highlight how if dealt with early on, health issues can be tackled if changes are made.

“I was presented with the award by Professor John Wright. It was a surprise, and I was kind of roped into attending an event and doing my presentation in person rather than online.

“At the end, they said they had a special announcement, and I was called to the front.

“I didn’t even know I had been nominated never mind being presented with the award.

“It was really special and I’m proud of this achievement.”

Professor John Wright of the Bradford Institute for Health Research said: “Shahid was central to our Covid response in Bradford.

“As part of our Covid Scientific Advisory Group he established strong links with our Born in Bradford families and wider community leaders, helping the NHS and council to detect the early health and social impact of the pandemic and target support.

“As the pandemic progressed, his ground-breaking community intelligence work was some of the first in the country to pick up vaccine hesitancy and help us develop effective programmes to reach those most in need.”

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