Meet Laura, our new Public Engagement and Involvement Coordinator!

I recently started at Health and Care Research Wales as the Public Involvement Coordinator, and I wanted to take a moment to introduce myself and share a little bit about my career journey. This is a journey that’s taken me from psychology to social services and back to psychology, with plenty of time spent in leisure centres as a fitness instructor along the way!

Early in my career, I worked in Human Resources, and then social services, where I saw just how many people struggled with their health - not just physically, but emotionally, socially and mentally. I also saw how often services were designed ‘for’ people, but rarely ‘with’ them. 

At the same time, I was also working as a fitness instructor. Week after week, I witnessed the power of movement, motivation and encouragement. I met people at their best and worst moments - celebrating goals, pushing through setbacks, laughing together and supporting one another. It was a constant reminder that health is so much more than medicine. It’s about people, relationships, motivation and mindset.

These two worlds came together when I found health psychology - a field that helps us understand the "why" behind health behaviours and how we can support people in living healthier, more empowered lives. I have recently completed my doctorate in health psychology where my research focused on women’s health and the experiences of young people in care. Working in public involvement with Health and Care Research Wales, means I can combine my love of working with people, my passion for proactive health care and my belief that real change only happens when we listen to people.

I’m incredibly enthusiastic about going out into communities, meeting people where they are and making research feel “relevant” not remote. Research is how we improve, but it’s only as good as the voices we include. That’s why public involvement is at the heart of progress.

I believe everyone has something valuable to share, and part of my role is to create the kind of spaces where people feel heard, respected and inspired to take part. Whether that’s through community groups, fitness classes, coffee mornings, or more formal sessions, I want people to feel they’re not just welcome, but “needed” in shaping the future of health care.

Thanks for taking the time to read a bit about me. I’m excited about what lies ahead - and for all the conversations, collaborations and community connections to come.

If you want to hear more about the team and public involvement then please sign up to our weekly bulletin or come to our next ‘conversation cafe’ on 20 May at 11:00, email us if you would like to attend.