The Neurological Rehabilitation Therapy & Technology Expo returned to ExCeL 10-11 June, showcasing the latest tech for the sector alongside clinical CPD seminars led by Plymouth University. Launched in June 2014 and having successfully replicated in New York earlier this year, the event was supported by ACNR, ACPIN, College of Occupational Therapists, APCP, BAHT, ARNI Institute, ISVR, The Stroke Association, The Birkdale Neuro Rehab Centre and Stoke Mandeville Spinal Research as the charity partner.
937 neurological rehabilitation professionals from the UK attended the 2x day event which showcased over 30 different technologies from across Europe and America.
Event Directors Tom Penn & Nathan Hendricks were delighted with the increase in numbers of delegates, up from 612 last year – an increase of over 50% – which they put down to a combination of the quality of seminar content; association partnerships and social media.
“Last year was the first time we’d ventured into the world of neurological rehabilitation and we didn’t hit the nail perfectly on the head in 2014 in terms of the seminar programme. However, this year was clearly different with many delegates stating that the quality of the speakers had been the deciding factor in whether or not to attend ExCeL. The workshop put on by Plymouth University was full from opening on Wednesday to close on Thursday and having recognised industry leaders such as Professor Jon Marsden on the programme proved a real draw.”
“Furthermore, we have to massively thank all of our association partners who went out of their way to strongly recommend attendance for their members.”
“Social media also played a huge role this year with Glynn Blakey of Saebo taking the lead in both the run-up and at the show itself. Most of all it was great to see this industry come together; discuss topical issues at the Live Debate; experience the latest technology and devices and enjoy some drinks in the June sun on Wednesday evening.”
“This industry moves so fast – if 1 day there’s not a new player in the virtual rehabilitation world then there’s a new robot which can make a real difference in stroke rehabilitation. We’ve already got new features which we are working on for 2016 to ensure we go way beyond the 1000 mark.”
ACNR 2015;15(2):31. Online 18/06/15
