Meet a Public Partner

Fuse has an active and diverse network of over 50 public partners with a rich range of lived experiences combined with an enthusiasm for public health research. Here our Fuse Public Partners talk briefly about themselves, why they are interested in public health, and their involvement with Fuse research.

Wendy McConnell

Wendy is a Parent and Community Organiser for Citizens UK. Through the Fuse Public Partner Network, she is working with researchers from Newcastle University on poverty-proofing maternity services.

Last modified: Mon, 24 Apr 2023 14:52:28 BST

John O'Shea

John is retired after a career in university administration. He was born and bred in Tyneside, and as a North Tyneside Councillor represents local residents in Whitley Bay. He led in the creation of the Newcastle Elders Council.

Last modified: Fri, 17 Feb 2023 15:53:23 GMT

Victoria Bartle

Victoria grew up in Newcastle and in her free time enjoys going to the cinema, theatre and to see live comedy. She has a particular and personal interest in research on multiple long term conditions.

Last modified: Tue, 06 Dec 2022 15:41:25 GMT

Irene Soulsby

Irene has always lived in the Gateshead area. She left school at 16 and worked as a secretary. After leaving work she joined a focus group about healthy eating & lifestyle and has been involved in Public Involvement & Engagement ever since.

Last modified: Thu, 03 Nov 2022 11:10:55 GMT

Wei Wang

Wei is an international student from China studying for a PhD at Durham University. She is interested in communication resources for encouraging people with disabilities to be more physically active. Wei also enjoys badminton and hiking.

Last modified: Thu, 29 Sep 2022 13:35:58 BST

Hannah Farr

Hannah originally hails from Derbyshire. She currently works as a Support Worker at Gateshead Council but will shortly be starting a new role in Engagement at Healthwatch. A main area of interest is in the social determinants of health.

Last modified: Wed, 31 Aug 2022 13:57:51 BST

Margaret Ogden

Margaret's professional background is in Community Engagement and she worked for Durham County Council Area Action Partnership as a Support Worker. She also enjoys writing poetry and has written a piece for the Fuse blog.

Last modified: Fri, 29 Jul 2022 15:15:39 BST