PCP Community
Research Team

With over 30 years in healthcare, my journey began as a nurse at the Royal Free Hospital, leading to specialised roles at University College Hospital and impactful positions at renowned institutions like Great Ormond Street Hospital. Beyond clinical expertise, my research career at UCL focused on surgical and intensive care outcomes, underscoring my relentless pursuit of improving patient care. I expanded my impact globally, managing research labs in Italy and Nepal and participating in the 2007 Caudwell Xtreme Everest expedition. Returning to County Durham in 2021, I joined the Pioneering Care Partnership Community Research Team, combining experience and passion for ongoing contributions to health and wellbeing.

Jenny trained as an academic researcher in the social sciences at Durham University, where she completed her doctorate on the differing experiences of work and occupation among people living with mental health difficulties.  After several years teaching and researching in a university environment, Jenny has enjoyed the opportunity of joining the PCP community research team to help develop ways of listening to local communities and vulnerable populations that can be heard by people who design the services that they use. Her interests include mental health and distress, work and occupation, young people, and collective and individual ‘energy’. 

Introducing Emma, an aspiring researcher with a passion for psychology and a deep commitment to understanding mental wellbeing. Emma comes from the urban environment of Newcastle, before later achieving a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Durham University. In the midst of the pandemic and the challenges posed, she continued to complete a master’s degree from Staffordshire University.

Emma brings a blend of academic rigor and hands-on experience, acquired through work experience in schools and mental health hospitals. In addition to her educational achievements, Emma is driven by a genuine curiosity about the complexities of human behaviour. This prompted her to join PCP, venturing into a field where psychology and research intersect while fostering exploration and meaningful connections.

I grew up in County Durham and spent a decade working as a forklift truck driver in a warehouse before starting a family. Following this, I pursued education, earning an NVQ2 in Business Admin, undertaking IT courses, and completing a basic counselling program. I then worked as a first contact for marriage support at 'Relate North East' and later as a legal secretary for a conveyancing and probate solicitor.

For 12 years, I served with Durham Constabulary, specialising in the criminal justice unit and professional standards. In 2015, I joined the Pioneering Care Partnership as a receptionist, eventually moving to the 'BBO ROAD' project. Presently, I support various teams including governance and compliance, research, 'Stamp-it-Out', and external partnerships. My journey illustrates adaptability, perseverance, and a commitment to driving meaningful change.