Professor Clare Bambra
Professor of Public Health at Newcastle University and Academic Co-director at Health Equity North
Professor Clare Bambra, Professor of Public Health at Newcastle University and Academic Co-director at Health Equity North leads a large research group which examines how to reduce health inequalities. This group has a particular focus on the North of England.
What do you enjoy most about working in your sector?
I enjoy the variety that public health research involves – as so many things impact on health inequalities.
How important is innovation within your sector?
We are constantly innovating our data and methods so that we can better understand and reduce health inequalities.
What professional achievement are you most proud of?
I was an expert witness on health inequalities to the COVID-19 Public Inquiry.
What are the challenges of being a woman working in your sector?
Many senior leaders in public health – particularly in the North East – are female so it is a great sector to be in many role models such as Ashley Adamson (Fuse Director), Eileen Kaner (ARC Director), Claire Sullivan (Deputy Director OHID) and Alice Wiseman (Director of Public Health, Gateshead) to name just a few!
What advice would you give to other women working in your sector?
To make links with senior colleagues and follow their lead and advice. And don’t be afraid to reach out – public health is a friendly place!
What would you say were the key challenges in your sector that currently prevent innovation moving forward?
The cuts to local authority and public health budgets over the last decade have been extensive and this has restricted health improvement intervention development.
Do you find any particular challenges as a woman working in the North of England?
No – I love being in the North East, the public health community is supportive and innovative!
You can follow Clare on X (formerly Twitter) at @ProfBambra and Newcastle University at @Uniof Newcastle
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