Meet a Public Partner

John O'Shea

Tell us a bit about your background. 

I am now retired after a lifelong career in university administration, mainly at Northumbria University. I was born and bred in Tyneside. I am a North Tyneside Councillor and represent local residents in Whitley Bay. My work involves regular contact with local residents and community groups, giving advice and support around local concerns. I am also Vice Chair of North Tyneside's Health and Wellbeing Board. Whilst I was a Councillor in Newcastle, I led the creation of the Newcastle Elders Council

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? 

In my free time, I enjoy socialising and travel, particularly in Eastern Europe. My son and his family live in Vienna. Additionally, much of my spare time is contacting local residents and attending Council meetings. 

How did you get involved in the Fuse public partner network? 

I have been involved with Fuse around issues relating to public engagement and have been involved in a number of Fuse events. Contact with Fuse arose when I saw a piece in the Elders Council magazine.

What areas of public health research are you particularly interested in? 

My particular interest is in Health and Wellbeing issues, mainly focused on health matters of older people and healthy ageing.

Have you been involved in research before?

I have been involved via Fuse in research as a volunteer in a number of medical research projects including Future Health and Social Care Innovation; creation of the Fuse Podcast ‘Public Health Research and Me’; involvement with Healthy Places, Healthy Planet and NHS - tobacco dependence services. 

Why is having your voice heard in public health research important to you? 

I believe that the voice of the public is a vital part of any successful research initiative. 

What one piece of advice would you share with someone curious about public involvement and engagement. 

Public voices are really important and are valued by researchers - your voice is really important, so get involved.

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