Harvey’s Lab Tours Recognised at the IBMS Awards
On Thursday 4 July, the IBMS Awards returned for its second year, spotlighting the people and teams driving progress in biomedical science.
Among categories such as Best Use of Research, Innovation or Technology, Biomedical Science Leader, and Rising Star, a new award was introduced for 2025: Harvey’s Lab Tour of the Year. This category was created to honour the powerful legacy of Harvey and the impact of lab teams who help children and their families feel more confident and involved in their healthcare.
The shortlisted sites were:
- Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary – Blood Science
- The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – Department of Blood Science
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust – Southampton General Hospital
- Wye Valley NHS Trust – Blood Sciences
- York and Scarborough NHS Foundation Trust – Scarborough, Hull and York Pathology Service
Each of these teams was recognised for their outstanding care in delivering tours that really make a difference. Their work supports young patients by helping them understand the journey of their samples and feel more at ease with the medical process.
And the Winner Is…
After a tense wait, Dumfries and Galloway Royal Infirmary was announced as the winner of Harvey’s Lab Tour of the Year.
Since 2019, the team has delivered more than twenty fun and educational lab tours for children. Some of the young visitors are patients themselves, while others are siblings or family members of children receiving care. Each tour is unique to the child, tailored to provide reassurance and a sense of inclusion for everyone involved. These visits have helped to demystify the laboratory, building confidence for children in healthcare settings.
The judges were impressed by the use of pre-tour questionnaires in allowing staff to prepare for any fears visiting children may have. One child with cystic fibrosis, for example, was scared of blue gloves. The team switched to purple gloves, making a big difference to how the child felt about future visits.
They also listened carefully to feedback. Tours are often adapted to include siblings so that no one feels left out, while some are scheduled for evenings or weekends to better suit families’ lives. These extra steps show just how deeply the team cares about the children and families they support.
By making the lab a less intimidating place, the team has helped to reduce anxiety and create calmer, more positive appointments. This allows treatment to go ahead more smoothly and with less stress for everyone involved.
Judges said:
“From the preparation to the very real, tangible benefits to staff and patients, there are very profound reasons that this entry is the winner of this award. The glowing testimonials also show how feedback is being used highly effectively.”
Specialist Biomedical Scientist Gayle Johnstone accepted the award from Malcolm Robinson, founder of Harvey’s Lab Tours. The winning team not only took home the title, but were also given a special Harvey Bear in a custom jacket, The moment was emotional and very heartfelt, with loud applause from the audience.
Gayle said:
“I’m completely overwhelmed. This isn’t just about our team in Dumfries and Galloway. It’s about showing the public the heart of our profession. To receive this award, with Malcolm here, in Harvey’s name, means more than words can say. I’m just so proud of what we’ve achieved.”
One Final Surprise
The final award of the evening was Biomedical Science Champion, presented to the overall winner across all categories. In an unexpected moment, this title was awarded to Dumfries and Galloway, in recognition of their exceptional work in public engagement and awareness.
Gayle returned to the stage, joined once again by Malcolm, welcomed with cheers and a standing ovation from the audience. It was a touching end to a great evening, and a clear reflection of just how much the team’s work means to the profession and to the public.
Gayle, IBMS President Joanna Andrew and host Dr Ed Patrick
Gayle celebrating her win with Harvey's Lab Tours Founder, Malcolm Robinson
Sue Jeffrey, Sharron Mc McGarva and Gayle Johnstone representing DGRI
A Day to Remember
Harvey’s Lab Tours is made possible by the hard work and dedication of biomedical scientists, lab teams and healthcare professionals across the UK. These volunteers give their time to help children understand what happens to their samples and feel more comfortable during their care. Their efforts make a lasting difference.
Congratulations to all the shortlisted sites. Thank you for helping young patients and their families feel more confident, informed and supported.
