Research is a powerful tool for improving population health, shaping effective interventions, and informing strategic decision making within local authorities.
This session, designed for Cheshire and Merseyside’s public health community, aims to introduce opportunities for research in public health. We will hear from local authority colleagues on how research is embedded within their public health programmes, showcasing practical examples of what is possible.
We will also be joined by colleagues from the NIHR RSS Specialist Centre for Public Health and ARC Northwest Coast, who will outline the support available, including funding opportunities and practical tips for developing strong research applications.
Through shared learning, case studies and insight from national partners, the event will highlight how locally driven research can enhance practice, improve outcomes, and strengthen the public health workforce.
The full speaker list is as follows:
- Dr Ifeoma Onyia, Director of Public Health, Halton Council & lead Director of Public Health for Research (Chair)
- Katriona Lloyd, Qualitative Programme Manager, Insights Team, Wirral Council
- Nicola Sheen, Public Health Research Training Manager, NIHR RSS Specialist Centre for Public Health
- Dr Helen Munro Wild, Research Fellow for the University of Hertfordshire & Methodologist, NIHR RSS Specialist Centre for Public Health
- Speaker from NIHR Health Determinants Research Collaboration Liverpool (TBC)
- Speaker from NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (TBC)
Event details
Date: Wednesday 20th May 2026
Timings: 2pm – 4pm
Venue: Online (Microsoft Teams)
