Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board is taking part in an exciting national research trial aiming to improve recovery for people who have suffered a hip fracture — helping them return home more quickly and maintain their independence for longer.

The trial, known as WHiTE 15 – Initiate, is being delivered at Ysbyty Gwynedd and Wrexham Maelor Hospital, in collaboration with the University of Oxford.

Each year, around 70,000 people in the UK sustain a hip fracture, at an ongoing annual cost of £3 billion to health and social care services. For many, the impact is life-changing — mobility and independence are often severely affected, with one in six people never returning home. This loss of mobility and independence contributes to around a quarter of patients dying within a year of their injury.

The WHiTE 15 – Initiate trial aims to find out whether increasing ward-based mobilisation activity after hip fracture surgery helps patients recover more quickly, get home sooner, and remain living independently for longer.

As part of the study, and with sponsorship from the University of Oxford, two additional physiotherapists are now directly involved in patient care. This allows rehabilitation to begin earlier after surgery and supports education for patients, relatives and the wider multidisciplinary team on the importance and benefits of early mobilisation following a hip fracture.

Ysbyty Gwynedd was the first hospital in Wales to recruit patients into the trial.

One of the patient’s taking part is Anne Stansfield, who broke her hip after falling at home. She praised the care she received and the focus on early movement.

“The physiotherapists and medical team have been fantastic. I really commend this trial and what it’s trying to achieve. Moving is so important — it really does help you get home quicker,” she said.

Sion Quinn, Clinical Lead Physiotherapist at Ysbyty Gwynedd, said it was a great opportunity for the team to be involved in the research.

“I’ve always had an interest in research because it’s how we learn to make services better so this is a great opportunity for us to be part of a trial that could genuinely improve outcomes for patients. We now have Gwenno and Lewis as physiotherapists dedicated to the study, which gives them valuable experience while helping us deliver earlier rehabilitation. We’ve had really positive feedback so far.”

Gareth Jones, Research Officer at Ysbyty Gwynedd, added: “Being involved in this study brings huge benefits — not only for patients but for staff and future service development. I’d like to thank the physiotherapy team for being so proactive and committed to making this trial a success.”

It is hoped the findings from WHiTE 15 – Initiate will help shape future care for hip fracture patients, supporting faster recovery, improved independence and better long-term outcomes.

Lisa Jobes, Clinical Research Specialist Nurse at Wrexham Maelor Hospital said: “Health Care Research Wales, said: “The study is designed to explore whether additional physiotherapy support can enhance patient care and support more timely discharges. Early feedback has been encouraging, and we will continue to evaluate its impact as the work progresses. I would like to thank all those involved for their commitment and collaboration to date.”

Dr Nicola Williams, National Director of Support and Delivery, Health and Care Research Wales, said, “This is an exciting study which could have far-reaching impact for patients, helping improve recovery and longer-term independence. It is also boosting research capacity, with the recruitment of two physiotherapists to help deliver the study.

“It is an excellent example of the important role physiotherapists can play in research studies, and how teams can work together across disciplines to embed research in practice and support patients.”