Public Health Spotlight Episode 5 – Liverpool City Council

Addressing Sexual Health Challenges in Liverpool: Insights from James Woolgar 

Welcome to the latest episode of “Public Health Spotlight,” the podcast that delves into the essential work carried out by public health professionals and shines a light on the vital services that keep our communities healthy.

In this upcoming episode, our host Maisie Hockings sits down with James Woolgar, an advanced public health practitioner for sexual health at Liverpool City Council and the current chair of the English HIV and Sexual Health Commissioners group. Join us as we explore James’ insights, his impactful work in Liverpool, and the challenges faced by sexual health and HIV services today. 

Please read on for a sneak peek of this episode and what you can expect to learn. 

Get to Know James Woolgar

With a deep-rooted interest in health outcomes and a commitment to reducing inequalities, James Woolgar’s career in public health began with a focus on neighbourhood and locality working. After earning a master’s degree in urban regeneration and health, he entered the realm of public health in 2009 and has been making significant strides ever since. Currently, James is a dedicated sexual health commissioner for Liverpool, where he designs and collaborates on effective sexual health services to meet the needs of his community. 

A Preview into His Role 

James’ work involves partnering with various stakeholders, including providers, trusts, charities, and community groups, to commission and design services centred on community needs. His responsibilities range from STI testing and treatment to contraception and HIV prevention. James shares the fulfilment he draws from strategic partnerships and the positive outcomes stemming from collaborative efforts. 

Exploring Current Challenges

Throughout the episode, James discusses the rising demand for services and increasing STI diagnoses, the critical need for continuous innovation, and the funding challenges inherent in public health. He highlights the innovative approaches Liverpool has adopted, such as digital testing and a hybrid approach combining in-clinic visits, online services, and tele triage. Moreover, he delves into the importance of workforce sustainability and the pressing need to address national variations in service availability and access. 

Pioneering Equity and Collaborative Strategies

James emphasises the importance of understanding and reaching out to underserved and marginalised groups, reinforcing the efforts toward equity supported by the Advisory Group on Contraception. He applauds the collaboration shown within the English commissioners group and notes the innovative strategies shared among sexual health commissioners. 

Future Priorities and National Strategies

In identifying future priorities, James calls for a comprehensive sexual and reproductive health strategy, focusing on levelling up services with parity of funding and national direction. He emphasises the importance of workforce development and sustained collaboration to meet the goals of HIV prevention by 2030.

Join us for an insightful and informative conversation with James Woolgar, as we dive into the challenges, successes, and future directions of sexual health services in Liverpool and beyond. Click the links below to listen and watch or find us on your preferred platform. Look forward to more episodes featuring dedicated public health leaders who are making a difference in their communities.

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