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In this episode of Public Health Spotlight, host Maisie Hockings sits down with Louise Smith, Deputy Director of Revalidation and Clinical Governance at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). Louise delves into her robust career journey, from her early training in Scotland during the mad cow disease and HIV crises to her pivotal roles in public health across the UK.

Louise shares key milestones in her career, including her work with the Scottish government to implement the 21-week antenatal scan and her tenure as Director of Public Health in Norfolk. She discusses the differences and similarities between working in local government and a national agency like UKHSA, as well as the personal and professional growth she has experienced through mentoring and executive coaching.

Listeners will gain insights into Louise's current role at UKHSA, her perspectives on the challenges and priorities for the future of public health, and her heartfelt advice for aspiring public health professionals.

Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

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In this episode of "Public Health Spotlight," host Mia Collet from Panoramic Associates talks with Steve Maddern, the Director of Public Health at Swindon Borough Council. Steve shares his journey from community pharmacy to leading public health initiatives in Swindon, a diverse and growing town. 

Steve discusses his role, which includes protecting and improving the health of Swindon's 233,000 residents. He highlights unique challenges, such as communicating health messages in a community that speaks over 40 languages, and his rewarding experiences, including the town's response to COVID-19 and the cost of living crisis. 

For aspiring public health leaders, Steve provides practical interview tips, emphasises the value of resilience, and outlines key future priorities in public health. This episode offers valuable insights into public health leadership and the specific dynamics of working in a diverse community like Swindon. 

Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

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In this insightful episode of Public Health Spotlights, host Maisie Hockings welcomes Angharad Shambler, Senior Public Health Strategist at the London Borough of Haringey. Angharad shares her journey into public health, discussing her extensive experience in fields like diabetes prevention, sexual health, and health protection.

The conversation delves into Angharad's role, highlighting her responsibilities in ensuring effective vaccination, screening services, and infection control. She speaks on the challenges of addressing health inequalities in a diverse borough like Haringey and emphasises the importance of collaborative partnerships.

A key focus is the impact of climate change on public health. Angharad explains how rising temperatures and severe weather events affect health, including worsening long-term conditions and mental health issues. She elaborates on Haringey's initiatives, such as severe weather preparedness plans and community engagement, to combat these effects.

Listeners will find valuable insights into best practices from other local authorities, the importance of cross-departmental collaboration, and future priorities for public health in the context of climate change. Angharad also offers advice for those considering a career in public health.

This episode is a must-listen for public health professionals, climate advocates, and anyone interested in the intersection of health and the environment.

Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

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In this episode of "Public Health Spotlight," host Mia Collett engages in a compelling conversation with Claire Beynon, the Executive Director of Public Health for Cardiff and Vale University Health Board. Claire shares her diverse and vibrant career journey, from working in various NHS roles, including cancer commissioning and public health consulting, to her current pivotal position.

Claire's passion for public health is evident as she talks about her commitment to teaching and mentoring the next generation of public health leaders, emphasising the importance of seizing varied career experiences and staying enthusiastic.

Gain valuable insights on managing public health initiatives, building strong partnerships, and the benefits of working within the Welsh public health system. Whether you're a public health professional, a student, or someone interested in community health, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration.

Tune in and discover how Claire Beynon balances her extensive roles and continues to drive impactful changes in public health.

Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

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In this episode of Public Health Spotlight, host Mia Collett speaks with Lucy Hubber, Director of Public Health for Nottingham City Council. Lucy shares her comprehensive journey in public health, from early career roles to her current leadership position, and outlines the key challenges and opportunities she faces in Nottingham.

Listeners gain insights into the pivotal responsibilities of a Director of Public Health, focusing on improving population health and tackling inequalities. Lucy highlights her award-winning approach to public health funding, ensuring impactful and strategic use of the public health grant, which earned her recognition at the 2023 ADPH conference.

The episode also delves into the value of professional networks, such as ADPH, for collaboration and policy development. Aspiring public health leaders will find Lucy’s reflections on essential skills, resilience, and managing complex portfolios particularly enlightening.

Tune in for an informative discussion that explores the nuances of public health leadership and innovation.

Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

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In this episode of "Public Health Spotlight," host Maisie Hockings speaks with James Woolgar, an advanced Public Health Practitioner at Liverpool City Council and chair of the English HIV and Sexual Health Commissioners group. James highlights the need to assess the effectiveness of local authority sexual health services in the face of budget cuts. He discusses the growing demand for online contraception among young people and suggests solutions like a national online access platform for contraceptive services.

James also emphasises the importance of equity in reaching underserved and marginalised groups. He shares insights into innovative sexual health initiatives across the UK, including Liverpool's award-winning community-based services. The conversation covers key public health challenges such as rising STI rates, evolving HIV prevention strategies, and improving access to contraception and abortion services.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the role local governments and public health teams play in addressing these issues through collaboration and data-driven strategies. James Woolgar’s dedication to providing better sexual health, along with innovative models and strategic partnerships, paints an optimistic picture for the future of sexual health services in Liverpool and beyond.

Tune in to hear how cities are navigating these complex challenges to create a healthier, more equitable future.

Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

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In this episode, our host, Maisie Hockings, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Kirsten Watters, the Director of Public Health at London Borough of Camden Council. Kirsten shares her inspiring journey from being a public health consultant in Suffolk to taking on the demanding role of Director of Public Health at Camden.

Throughout the episode, Kirsten discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of public health in a diverse borough like Camden, reflecting on rewarding experiences such as creating a public health report on adolescent health and highlighting the importance of engaging young people in public health initiatives. She also shares insights on transitioning from a consultant to a director, emphasising the importance of understanding corporate leadership, local government, and building strong relationships with elected members.

Tune in to gain insights into the future priorities in public health, the benefits of working in a political environment, and the vital skills needed to excel in a director role. Whether you're a seasoned public health professional or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspirational stories that you won’t want to miss.

Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

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In the third episode of the Public Health Spotlight podcast, host Mia Collett from Panoramic Associates sits down with Derek Ward, the Director of Public Health for Lincolnshire and a visiting professor at the University of Lincoln Medical School. Derek shares his unique journey into public health, beginning with his early research role and progressing through various roles in the civil service and academia. 

Derek provides insights into the multifaceted role of a Director of Public Health, emphasising the importance of both primary prevention and secondary and tertiary interventions in improving population health and well-being. He discusses the innovative public health strategies being implemented in Lincolnshire, such as a fall response service and a balance and stability program aimed at supporting the county’s older population.

The conversation also touches on the significance of effective business management skills for public health leaders and the value of collaborative efforts and idea sharing on both a national and global scale. Derek sheds light on the dynamic interactions between local public health initiatives and broader economic growth agendas, underscoring the interconnectedness of economic and public health improvements. 

Join us for a compelling discussion that highlights the diverse challenges and rewarding opportunities within public health. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on public health leadership, innovation, and the continuous effort to enhance community health across varied regions.

Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

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In this episode of Public Health Spotlight, Panoramic Associates' Mia Collett sits down with Greg Fell, the Director of Public Health in Sheffield and President of the Association of Directors of Public Health. Greg takes us through his unique career journey, starting from a degree in biochemistry and physiology, to various roles in health promotion, all leading to his current position in Sheffield. He provides valuable insights into the multifaceted responsibilities of a Director of Public Health, such as managing resources, coordinating responses to infectious diseases, and leading health improvement initiatives.

Greg shares his experiences and challenges specific to Sheffield, highlighting the socio-economic divides within the city and efforts to address them. He also discusses the broader implications of his role on a national level through his presidency in the ADPH and how it informs his local practice. The episode delves into the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, future public health priorities, and offers practical advice for aspiring Directors of Public Health.

Join us as we explore the complexities, rewards, and future direction of public health through the eyes of one of its key leaders. Whether you're a public health professional or simply interested in the field, this episode is packed with insightful information and valuable takeaways.

Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.

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Welcome to the inaugural episode of Public Health Spotlight! Hosted by Maisie Hockings, this episode features an insightful conversation with Dr. Justin Varney, the Director of Public Health at Birmingham City Council. Dr. Varney shares his compelling journey from training in London to leading Birmingham’s public health efforts. He discusses the multifaceted nature of his role, which intertwines data analysis, community engagement, and the art of strategic partnerships.

Listeners will delve into the challenges and triumphs of managing public health in a vibrant and diverse city, the importance of personal resilience, and tips for aspiring public health professionals. Dr. Varney also shares his experiences during the Commonwealth Games and the COVID-19 pandemic, offering invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of public health. 

Tune in for an in-depth discussion on the ever-evolving field of public health, the strategic importance of local governance, and the future challenges that lie ahead. This episode is a compelling listen for anyone interested in the impactful work of public health and the dedication it requires.

Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.