What's happened 

Two podiatrists from Belfast Health and Social Care Trust were recognised at the Advancing Healthcare Awards Northern Ireland, held at La Mon Hotel and Country Club on 22 October 2026. 

Claire Byrne, Principal Podiatrist, received the Award for Masters clinical research. 

Her research, Safety and Outcomes of Biennial Diabetes Foot Screening in Low-Risk Adults: A Two-Year Retrospective Cohort Analysis, investigated whether people with diabetes assessed as being at low risk of foot complications could safely be screened every two years rather than annually. 

The study examined records from 250 adults on a two-year screening pathway. Most remained at low risk, and no foot ulceration or infection was recorded during the study period. 

The findings suggest that longer screening intervals may be appropriate for some low-risk patients, potentially freeing up clinical capacity for those at greater risk. 

Denise Killough, Professional Head of Podiatry Services at Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, was recognised in the Award for outstanding leadership category for her contribution to transforming podiatry and diabetes care across Northern Ireland. 

Her work has included the development of a regional diabetes foot pathway, a four-tier model of care, the standardisation of insulin pump services and a shared risk assessment tool. 

These developments have focused on identifying patients at high risk of complications earlier and improving the care available to people living with diabetes. 

Why this matters to members 

The Advancing Healthcare Awards Northern Ireland recognise the work of allied health professionals, healthcare scientists and support staff. They are part of the wider Advancing Healthcare Awards programme but operate separately from the UK-wide awards. 

The recognition of Claire and Denise highlights two important areas of podiatry practice – building the evidence to inform clinical decisions and improving the way services deliver care to patients. 

Links and references 

• Advancing Healthcare Awards Northern Ireland winners guide 

• Claire Byrne's research – Ulster University