How to concretely step forward in the fight against diet-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs)? The SHIELD project addressed this question during its latest Partnership Meeting in Ioannina, with a two-days event of impactful exchanges on the next steps of the project about health food choices.
A central focus of the first day was the SHIELD Protocol, with each partner presenting how they plan to implement the pilot in their own territory, detailing target groups, local stakeholders, and the necessary operational arrangements. Ethical considerations were also addressed, reflecting the project’s commitment to responsible and people-centred innovation. Partners also had the opportunity to explore the first mock-up of the SHIELD Platform, a digital tool designed to connect health professionals, patients and communities across borders. The session opened a wide-ranging discussion on functionalities, priorities and next steps, contributing to the design of a tool that truly responds to local needs.
The second day turned to the longer-term structures that will sustain the project’s impact beyond its duration. Partners discussed the Referral Support Network (a cross-border mechanism linking health and social services) and aligned on the formalisation of the Cross-Border Working Table, which will bring together key stakeholders from both countries to steer joint action on NCD prevention. The meeting also explored how SHIELD’s innovations can evolve into sustainable opportunities, with a dedicated session on the Virtual Incubation Platform and the development of new models in digital health, patient empowerment and health literacy.
The Ioannina meeting confirmed the strong momentum of the SHIELD partnership. With pilot activities underway and key project tools taking shape, SHIELD is moving steadily from vision to impact.
