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.

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.

Growing up in the small seaside town of Filey, I am currently based in Durham, where I'm pursuing a degree in psychology. An aspiring health researcher, I'm driven by my interests in mental and physical health and understanding how the two interact to affect wellbeing. My studies have enabled me to gain a deeper understanding of the two, whilst also developing a keen interest in research and its potential to support meaningful change.

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Inspired by PCPs commitment to its mission, my journey with the team began last year as a volunteer, and I am delighted to continue contributing in my new role.

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Having gained experience in education and healthcare settings, I'm passionate about improving health inequalities and outcomes, and am excited to bring both my academic skills and passion for improving health inequalities and outcomes to the team.

My interest in psychology initially stemmed from my passion for sports. From a young age, I competed in regional-level swimming competitions and actively participated in netball and athletics. As I transitioned away from competitive sports, I developed a growing fascination with the connection between the human mind and body. This curiosity led me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in psychology, followed by a master’s in health psychology.

In 2022, I embarked on my professional journey with the Pioneering Care Partnership, joining the Covid Resilience Team (now the County Durham Resilience Team). In this capacity, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients across County Durham, applying person-centred care to enhance their overall wellbeing. My current role, which bridges both the resilience and research teams, allows me to leverage my analytical abilities while further honing my interpersonal skills.