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In this conversation, Lorelei talks to Nia Thomas, Head of Culture Development from Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, about what it really takes to build a healthy workplace culture in healthcare – one where staff feel safe, supported and empowered. Drawing on her extensive experience in organisational culture, Nia explores how culture is shaped by everyone, not just leadership, and why psychological safety is such a vital foundation for effective teams. She shares honest reflections on the challenges staff face at every level and highlights the importance of compassionate communication, modelling positive behaviours and creating environments where people feel able to speak up.

Nia shares how small, everyday interactions, reflective practice and curiosity can gradually shift culture in meaningful ways, and why strong relationships and trust are essential in complex health systems. The episode is grounded, practical and full of insight for anyone working to improve wellbeing, teamwork and equity in healthcare. This episode is a must-listen for managers, leaders, health educators and frontline professionals committed to building healthier, safer and more compassionate workplaces.

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In this episode, we’re taking a closer look at something most of us slip into without meaning to - spending workdays sitting still. Imogen is joined by Anna Quinn, Wellbeing Officer at Bangor University, to talk about how this “desk-bound culture” crept in, what it’s doing to our energy and focus, and why moving more during the day doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming.

Together, we explore the small, realistic changes anyone can try — from walking meetings and standing tasks to using tech creatively and building short movement breaks back into busy schedules. We also discuss the personal side of movement: how our habits form, what gets in the way, and the surprising ways that tiny bits of activity can boost mood, concentration and overall wellbeing.

It’s a relaxed, practical conversation full of real-life examples, small wins and encouragement for anyone wanting to feel better at work — one simple movement at a time.

Additional Resources from Anna:

Active Workplace Champion Training | Bangor University

Reading list:

In Praise of Walking : The new science of how we walk and why it’s good for us: Shane O'Mara: 9781784707576: hive.co.uk 

The book is also available in BU library for staff and students to borrow: https://library.bangor.ac.uk/permalink/44WHELF_BANG/6bc255/alma991005270698502422

Paper by ML Griffiths at Public Health Wales on changes to activity levels of home-workers during Covid:

(PDF) Exploring the health impacts and inequalities of the new way of working: findings from a cross-sectional study

Physical Literacy Across the Lifecourse by Margaret Whitehead – compulsory reading for anyone wanting to learn about Physical Literacy:

Physical Literacy: Throughout the Lifecourse - 1st Edition - Margaret

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In this episode of the Health Equity Podcast, host Dr Lorelei Jones sits down with Dr Carys Stringer, Health Economist at Bangor University and a member of the newly launched Women’s Health Research Centre.

Together, they reflect on the College of Medicine and Health’s Women’s Health Symposium held at Pontio, Bangor University (17th September 2025). The event brought together researchers, clinicians, policymakers and the public to address inequalities in women’s health across the life course.

Carys shares her insights from keynote talks and presentations, ranging from endometriosis and cervical screening access to intersectionality, community-based domestic abuse programmes, and the value of meaningful co-production. The conversation highlights the breadth of research showcased at the symposium, the importance of collaboration, and how patient and public voices are shaping the future of women’s health in Wales.

This episode also explores the Welsh Government’s new Women’s Health Plan, including the introduction of dedicated Women’s Health Hubs set to transform access to care.

A fantastic discussion of another inspiring event – and a reminder of why advancing women’s health research and equity matters for all of us. 

Just a quick note: during the episode, “Fair Treatment for the Women of Wales” was accidentally introduced as “Fair Trade for the Women of Wales.” Our slip of the tongue! We wanted to make sure to give the correct name here and acknowledge the brilliant work they do.

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In this episode, Dr Amrita Jesurasa, Consultant in Public Health at Public Health Wales, joins us to unpack the new Prevention-Based Health and Care (PBHC) Framework. We explore how this ambitious, system-wide approach is embedding prevention into everyday decision-making, reducing inequalities, and reshaping public health in Wales. Amrita shares practical insights into the "prevention cycle", the All-Wales Diabetes Prevention Programme, the role of data, and how meaningful community engagement and cross-sector collaboration are driving change.

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In this month's episode of The Health Equity Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Sofie Roberts, climate researcher and Research Officer at Bangor University. Sofie shares her journey from environmental science to the heart of health economics, exploring how climate mitigation and adaptation strategies, such as tree planting, wildflower meadows, and greener urban spaces. All of which can offer powerful co-benefits for health.

We discuss the public response to green space interventions in North Wales, the concept of “place attachment” in climate engagement, and the importance of working across disciplines to tackle the complex relationship between climate change and public health. Sofie also highlights a European course on Climate Resilient Health Systems and the role of community voice in shaping better environments.

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In this episode of The Health Equity Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Lewis Elliott, Environmental Psychologist and Senior Lecturer at the University of Exeter, to explore the fascinating findings of the Blue Health Project - a pan-European research initiative examining the relationship between blue spaces (like rivers, lakes, and coastlines) and public health.

From mental wellbeing and community cohesion to urban planning and biodiversity, Dr. Elliott shares powerful insights on why water-rich environments aren’t just beautiful — they’re vital health assets. We dive into the science behind how these spaces affect mental health, how urban planners can incorporate them effectively, and why access for all matters. A must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of environment, equity, and health.

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In this episode, we speak to Dr Rebecca Payne, GP and Clinical Senior Lecturer at Bangor University, about a fantastic project transforming out-of-hours healthcare in North Wales. The REMeDy machine (Remote Medication Made Easy) is a new technology allowing patients to access urgent prescriptions like antibiotics when local pharmacies are closed.

Dr Payne shares how a Twitter rant led to a groundbreaking collaboration between Bangor University, Oxford University, and the NHS. From stormy nights in Orkney to rural communities in Wales, she discusses the project’s development, the challenges of remote healthcare, and how real-world research and community insight are shaping more accessible services for all.

This is a great example of how academic research and local partnerships can drive meaningful innovation in healthcare.

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In this episode, we speak to Dr Rebecca Payne, GP and Clinical Senior Lecturer at Bangor University, about a fantastic project transforming out-of-hours healthcare in North Wales. The REMeDy machine (Remote Medication Made Easy) is a new technology allowing patients to access urgent prescriptions like antibiotics when local pharmacies are closed.

Dr Payne shares how a Twitter rant led to a groundbreaking collaboration between Bangor University, Oxford University, and the NHS. From stormy nights in Orkney to rural communities in Wales, she discusses the project’s development, the challenges of remote healthcare, and how real-world research and community insight are shaping more accessible services for all.

This is a great example of how academic research and local partnerships can drive meaningful innovation in healthcare.

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In this episode we sit down with Dr. Nathan Bray, Academy Lead and advocate for improving health outcomes through innovative measurement tools. We explore an issue affecting nearly a quarter of the UK population: the challenges faced by individuals living with disabilities and impairments. Dr. Bray shares insights into his latest groundbreaking project, AdaptQoL, aimed at better measuring the impact of assistive and adaptive interventions. 

Discover how this new tool will empower healthcare professionals, researchers, and patients to accurately evaluate quality of life and health outcomes. Join us as we hear all about this exciting new project in its initial stages...

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This episode of Let's Talk Preventative Healthcare features a conversation hosted by our very own Dr. Lorelei Jones with Dr. Emma Hosking, Medical Director of an Integrated Care Community in North Wales. Dr. Hosking discusses the importance of systems leadership in improving population health, emphasising collaboration, mutual appreciation, and a holistic approach to patient care. She shares insights on navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, bridging the gap between different care settings, and fostering a compassionate culture among healthcare professionals.  Learn how systems thinking can enhance the patient journey and lead to more effective and rewarding healthcare outcomes for both patients and providers.

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