A new agreement between Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, the University of Oxford, the University of Toronto and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto, has been formalised with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the four organisations.

This transatlantic partnership will enhance existing relationships between the universities and the two healthcare providers. It will enable the development of key structures to facilitate collaboration and help realise the benefits of the complementary capabilities of the participating organisations. Under the terms of the agreement the partners plan to:

• share clinical and research science expertise, capacity building and access to industry
• collaborate on digital innovation programmes
• collaborate on staff and student exchange programmes
• co-host symposia, conferences, seminars and other events
• make joint applications for funding.

Digital healthcare is likely to be one of the first areas of focus where the partners will work together to identify common challenges and share best practice. The group will support global research cooperation and work to attract greater international recognition for mental health research.

Dr Nick Broughton, CEO, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust said:

“We are delighted to celebrate the signing of this Memorandum of Understanding which reflects the longstanding academic relationship between Oxford and Toronto. All four partner organisations are recognised as leaders at a national, and to varying degrees an international level, and are committed to becoming world class institutions. The partnership reflects Oxford Health’s commitment to becoming a leading research organisation and fully realising the benefits of our already strong academic links.”

Professor John Geddes, Director of Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre and Head of the Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford said:

“International collaboration is crucial for developing both research and clinical practice. Signing the MoU with our partners in Canada will enable us to promote a culture of collaboration and data science in mental health and build new networks to meet the needs of 21st century mental health research. The benefits of this agreement will be shared across research organisations and healthcare providers not only in North America and Europe, but also globally.”

Dr. Vicky Stergiopoulos, Physician-in-Chief at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health said:

“At CAMH, we believe that collaboration is key to accelerating discovery and innovation. Working with our UK partners will provide opportunities to expand our respective networks and build capacity locally and globally to address health disparities in mental health.”

Professor Trevor Young, Dean, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Vice Provost, Relations with Health Care Institutions, University of Toronto, said:

“By signing this Memorandum of Understanding, our four organizations have expressed a common commitment to elevating education and research in the field of psychiatry. Diversity of thought is essential when caring for diverse populations. By sharing ideas and expertise we will all become better equipped to provide equitable treatment to the patients we serve.”