Healthwatch Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Manager: Julie Bird
After completing a psychology degree with the Open University, Julie worked in welfare for 20 years, beginning as a hospital inspector with NHS Scotland and as Royal British Legion County Welfare Manager in Worcestershire before qualifying as a person-centred counsellor and trained CBT therapist. More recently, Julie has worked for Bristol City Council - both as a business development manager for the Energy Service and as a project delivery lead for Community Learning. Julie joined Healthwatch Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) in 2020 as Bristol Lead before becoming Engagement Programme manager and Healthwatch Manager in 2024.
She now oversees the commissioned work delivering projects across BNSSG, working with the team developing the coproduction approach and liaising with communities and stakeholders to amplify the voice of service users with a focus on underrepresented groups and addressing health inequalities.
Our staff
North Somerset Projects and Engagement Officer
01275 244238
contact@healthwatchnorthsomerset.co.uk
Bristol Projects and Engagement Officer
0117 2033594
contact@healthwatchbristol.co.uk
Engagement Officer, Healthwatch Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire: Anna King
Anna has worked in a freelance capacity for Healthwatch since 2022 on a wide range of research and engagement projects, on issues such as dignity in hospital care, maternal mental health, and adult social care services across BNSSG. Following this she worked as Projects and Engagement Officer for Healthwatch South Gloucestershire. Anna has a background in health and social care research, and evaluation in the public and voluntary sector. She worked at the University of Bristol in health services research and systematic reviewing, and the University of the West of England (UWE) in policy research.
01454 506176
anna@healthwatchsouthglos.co.uk
Volunteer Co-ordinator: Jacqui Reeves
Jacqui's role is to recruit, train and support volunteers which is a vital part of Healthwatch BNSSG. Without the support of our volunteers, we would not be able to carry out our vital work. Jacqui has worked in the Voluntary Sector and food sustainability sector for many years, predominately involved in food insecurity. She was CEO of FareShare Southwest for ten years from its start in Bristol and has developed many volunteer training and employability programmes. She currently teaches for Community Learning Bristol as well as her part time role with Healthwatch BNSSG.
07928 206365
Data and Insights Officer: Miriam Booth
Miriam is responsible for recording, analysing and summarising the data and feedback that we receive to help bring about improvements and positive changes to the services people receive in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. She worked in management in the distribution sector for over 20 years and particularly enjoyed being involved in the introduction and development of data systems, and in producing clear data to guide decision making.
Communications Officer: Helen West
Helen heads up our communications, including our websites, social media, newsletters, print publications, and press. She creates brand-specific content for each of the areas we cover, promoting our work and building awareness of Healthwatch. Collecting patient feedback via digital platforms and offering signposting advice are a key part of Helen's role, along with developing strong links with partners such as the NHS, local authority, and health and social care providers.
