Representatives from ARC NWC attended Head Matters 2026, the annual open day hosted by ARC NWC partner The Brain Charity in Liverpool city centre. The event brought together charities, organisations, healthcare professionals and members of the public for a day focused on raising awareness of mental health and neurological conditions.
Held at the organisation’s Norton Street centre on 20th June, the relationship between neurological conditions and mental wellbeing was explored, while showcasing the support, services and community resources available to people across the region.
Sandra Smith, Champion of the Long-Term Conditions Theme, led the team disseminating research, examples of impact case studies and spent the day engaging with the public and discussing the importance of involvement in public health research. Conversations focused on how research can create meaningful change in communities and how members of the public can play an active role in shaping future studies and healthcare priorities.
Sandra reflected on the value of these conversations and the importance of making research accessible to the wider public:
“It was a pleasure to chat to members of the local community, listen to their stories, and discuss how we can bring research to life. It’s so important to ensure this work creates real world impact and improves people’s lives as well as promoting the involvement opportunities within the collaboration.”
You can also hear more from Sandra here, where she discusses her experiences of being a public contributor for the ARC NWC.
Staff from ARC partner The Brain Charity had the opportunity to discuss research findings applicable to their area of interest and find out internship opportunities.
Emerald Rose, Qualified Counsellor, Psychotherapist & Neuro-Psychotherapist for The Brain Charity, said: “I always come away from conversations with ARC staff feeling really encouraged and with lots to think about. They’ve been so supportive and kind whenever we’ve talked about research ideas, careers, and health inequalities over the years, and it really means a lot.”
The event also provided a valuable opportunity to connect directly with the local community. Through open conversations, the ARC NWC team discussed how collaborative research can improve services, reduce inequalities and deliver practical benefits across the North West Coast.
Pictured (above) are ARC NWC Communications Officer Phil Middleton-Smith, The Brain Charity’s Emerald Rose and ARC NWC Public Contributor Sandra Smith.