Sue Geary

Originally trained as a librarian, I worked in academic and public libraries during the 1980s. However, the majority of my career was spent within social care services, managing policy, performance and commissioning teams.  I was passionate about evidence-based practice and was always keen to apply research knowledge to improve services.   I also learned very quickly that co-production was a prerequisite for good commissioning of care services, and worked hard to develop links with service user and carer groups. 

I retired early in 2020 to care for my mother and uncle, who both had dementia.  Sadly, they both died during the pandemic.  Since my retirement, I have become involved in a variety of voluntary work, including being a Trustee of my local Healthwatch, a Patient Safety Partner with a large health trust and a hospital befriender.    I am also a member of my local GP Practice Participation Group and am involved as a PPI&E member in several different research projects.  In my 'spare' time, I also help out at a local community cafe and enjoy spending time (growing and chatting) on my allotment.

I am especially interested in meaningful and diverse public and patient engagement that can ensure research will be applied to improve services.  I think it's particularly helpful for the public to be engaged in the dissemination of research findings and transfer of knowledge.