Research and Policy in Health Humanities & Creative Health
Free online webinar — Thursday 29 October 2026, 12.30–2pm
How do you turn health humanities and creative health research into something policymakers can actually use? That question sits behind our upcoming webinar, co-hosted by our Research and Policy Manager, Dr Jane Hearst, and Leverhulme Early Career Fellow, Dr Jade Elizabeth French. The webinar will bring together researchers, policy specialists, and creative practitioners for an afternoon of practical, hands-on guidance.
Background to the Event
Earlier in 2026, Jade hosted an in-person, British Academy-funded event at Loughborough University’s Health Humanities Hub, designed to help a small group of Early Career Researchers build their policy skills. Jane was one of the panellist to join Jade at the event, and she enjoyed the rich discussion so much, she wanted to bring it to NCCH’s wide network of Creative Health stakeholders!
Why it matters
For NCCH, translating research and practice into language policymakers can use is core to what we do. For our partners on the Mobilising Community Assets to Tackle Health Inequalities programme (MCA), who are heading towards their final year, policy impact has become an increasing priority.
For Loughborough University, hosting the original in-person event reflected its investment in developing the next generation of Health Humanities researchers. Jade, an early career researcher herself, is particularly motivated to help other ECRs navigate the often-unfamiliar ground between academic research and policy influence.
What to expect
The webinar opens with an expert panel discussion and live Q&A, then moves into a series of "flash talks" from specialists who can point attendees towards practical next steps. It closes with the launch of a set of free resources.
Guest panellists include:
- Professor Bertha Ochieng, Professor of Integrated Health and Social Care, De Montfort University
- Jeremy Kimmel, Heritage and Engagement Director, Amelia Scott – Tunbridge Wells Council
- Charlotte Miller, Co-Founder, Intergenerational England and Intergenerational Music Making
Flash talks will come from partners, such as:
- Dr Alice Lilly, Senior Researcher, Institute for Government
- Laura Bea, Head of Membership and Network Development, Universities Policy Engagement Network (UPEN)
- Helen McCabe, Thematic Research Lead for the Arts and Humanities, UK Parliament
Who should attend
The webinar is aimed at early career researchers across the UK, alongside academics and evaluators working on policy impact. Creative practitioners, lived experience advisors, and health and social care leaders are also welcome to join.
Accessibility
This session runs via Microsoft Teams Webinar. Let us know your access requirements when registering. See NCCH's Guidance for Online Meetings & Webinars for more information.
With thanks
This event is delivered in partnership between the National Centre for Creative Health and Loughborough University's Health Humanities Hub, with support from the Mobilising Community Assets to Tackle Health Inequalities (MCA) programme.
