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In this episode of Public Health Spotlight, Callum is joined by Siobhan Farmer, Director of Public Health for Gloucestershire County Council. Together, they trace Siobhan’s remarkable public health journey from her early university days in physiology and back pain research to hands-on work in health promotion, tackling issues such as childhood obesity, drugs, alcohol, and teenage pregnancy in the North East and North West.

Siobhan opens up about the moments that shaped her perspectives on inequality, social justice, and the power of community engagement. She shares how her eye-opening experiences in deprived neighbourhoods and witnessing the stark contrasts in life expectancy across the UK ignited her passion for making health opportunities fairer for all.

The conversation delves deep into Siobhan’s diverse portfolio—including managing a major measles outbreak in Merseyside, leading innovative sexual health and NHS Health Check programmes in Salford, and championing data-driven approaches to improve services. Notably, she discusses her move to the Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Partnership and her role in shaping impactful screening initiatives, always mindful of equity, evidence, and the hidden costs and benefits of public health interventions.

Arriving in Gloucestershire just as COVID-19 struck, Siobhan reflects on the immense challenges and critical leadership lessons she gained during the pandemic—drawing on her crisis experience to steer urgent, cross-agency action. She describes the distinct health landscape of Gloucestershire, from urban to deeply rural communities, and the collaborative work required to support them all.

A standout feature of this episode is Siobhan’s personal and powerful “Just Another Drop” annual report, where she candidly shares her family’s experience with alcohol misuse and its ripple effects on children and communities. Her reflections highlight the importance of compassion, vulnerability, and open conversation in public health leadership.

Other highlights include an in-depth look at achieving real-world change—such as opening a much-needed pharmacy in Podsmead by combining data with lived experience from the community and elected officials. Siobhan also offers valuable advice on career progression, confidence, mentorship, and why finding the right environment for your leadership style is crucial.

Tune in for an honest and inspiring exploration of leadership, resilience, and the reality of public health in action across teams, communities, and crises—and learn why public health is not just about data, but about people, partnerships, and persistent hope for a fairer future.

Thank you for tuning in to Public Health Spotlight: A Panoramic Associates Podcast. For more expert discussions on public health, be sure to subscribe. Visit our website at panoramicassociates.co.uk to learn more about our work in the public health sector. This podcast is produced in collaboration with the Association of Directors of Public Health.