48:23 – the annual summer conference returned bigger and better than ever before!

Upon arrival at the venue, everyone fuelled up with coffee and pastries before settling into their seats, ready for a jam-packed 2 days. Our CEO, Chris Edmonds, kicked off the day with agency updates that really emphasised how everyone has been embodying the theme of the year: Together We Win. Not only is this a key theme for the agency in 2023 and beyond, but it was also the theme of the 48:23 event.

Our first speaker was Marc Priestley, a former F1 pit crew member for McLaren. Marc shared valuable insights on the essence of teamwork, prioritising efficiency and embracing change. Whilst life at F1 may differ from day-to-day life in Med Comms, one message that really resonated was Marc’s explanation of teamwork?– you win as a team, and you lose as a team. Everyone plays a significant role and is fundamental to success. So again, Together We Win!

We then moved into our team challenges. The teams had been competing in various tasks throughout the year to earn points, with the final tasks taking place at 48:23. The first of the day was a ‘crack the code’ challenge that had everyone deciphering clues to unlock a key code box. A time limit of 30 minutes was set and the winning team smashed this out the park, finishing in 6 minutes – a sign of incredible teamwork and true embodiment of our collaboration value!

After lunch, we heard from Dr Grace Wright, a junior doctor and ambassador for Medics for Rare Diseases. With advocacy for rare diseases a core part of our work at emotive, it was fascinating to hear her perspective on rare diseases as both a medical doctor and older sister of someone diagnosed with a rare disease. Sharing her perceived barriers to better care for patients with rare diseases, we gained perspective on how we might be able to play a role in enhancing advocacy for these often-neglected groups and, ultimately, have a positive impact on people’s health around the world.

Team spirit, and perhaps some healthy competitiveness, reached a high in the afternoon as we all split into our teams for an ‘Apprentice-style’ scavenger hunt around the wonderful town. With all to play for on the leader board, the teams raced through the challenge and – just shy of probably 10,000 steps – finished with a final and well-deserved task of spending ￡5 in Mr Simms Sweet Shop.

With the activities and inspiring sessions of Day 1 wrapped up, everyone dressed up and headed for an evening by the river to celebrate excellence throughout 2023 so far. Kicking the evening off with the bi-annual Value Awards, five worthy winners were presented with awards for best representing our values of Agility, Collaboration, Empowerment, Integrity and Imagination, as voted for by the whole agency. With the sun setting over Windsor Marina, everyone enjoyed a BBQ and drinks – a fantastic end to a great day.

We kicked off Day 2 hearing from a true leader in healthcare, Dame Barbara Hakin. With her wealth of experience in both the clinical and managerial side of healthcare, from GP to Deputy Chief Executive of NHS England, it was fascinating to hear Dame Barbara’s insights into the challenges facing healthcare and the key factors needed for successful innovation to aid its survival. Whilst it was harrowing to hear, it was incredibly thought-provoking and certainly inspired reflection on how the Med Comms industry might encourage effective change to support the longevity of the NHS.

The final activity of 48:23 followed on nicely from Dame Barbara’s talk. Based on the understanding that NHS staff are currently stressed, burnt out and experiencing abuse from patients, each team was tasked with proposing a solution to tackling the NHS staffing crisis and improving staff retention. After spending time deliberating on what might be a feasible, focused and actionable solution, each team presented their inspiring and thoughtful proposals. This concluded the year’s team challenges, and with the final scores in, ‘Team Cactus’ was crowned the ultimate winner for 2023. ?

With a fantastic 48 hours coming to an end, the team set off home in high spirits – reminded of our ability to inspire change, deliver excellence and ultimately transform lives as a team. It will certainly be hard to beat 48:23 next summer!