Public Health Spotlight S2 Ep15 – Dr Lincoln Sargeant

Public Health Spotlight: Community, Curiosity, and Leadership in Action

In this episode of Public Health Spotlight, produced in partnership with ADPH and Panoramic Associates, host River Simmons is joined by Lincoln, Director of Public Health for Torbay. Together, they explore Lincoln’s unique journey from the Caribbean to the UK and discuss how community, curiosity, and compassion continue to shape his approach to public health leadership.

Community Roots: Growing Up in Nevis

Lincoln reflects on his childhood in Nevis and his early professional experiences across the Caribbean. Drawing on memories of neighbourhood support, barter systems, and multigenerational living, he discusses how these experiences shaped his belief in community-led solutions and asset-based approaches to improving health outcomes.

Curiosity and Creativity in Public Health Leadership

A recurring theme throughout the conversation is the importance of maintaining a sense of curiosity. Lincoln shares how growing up without television encouraged reading, imagination, and a desire to learn, qualities that continue to influence how he approaches complex public health challenges and cross-sector collaboration today.

Building High-Performing Public Health Teams

Lincoln discusses his experience building a public health team from the ground up during the transition of public health functions from the NHS into local government. He reflects on creating a positive culture, investing in specialist expertise, and developing a strong intelligence function to support evidence-based decision-making.

Managing Public Health Crises in the Digital Age

The episode explores the challenges of leading during a public health emergency, focusing on the Cryptosporidium outbreak that attracted national attention. Lincoln discusses balancing transparency and reassurance, tackling misinformation, and coordinating communications across multiple organisations while under significant public scrutiny.

Community Action and Suicide Prevention

Lincoln shares the story behind the Baton of Hope suicide prevention initiative, demonstrating the power of community partnership and grassroots action. The conversation highlights how local organisations, volunteers, and residents came together to create a meaningful movement focused on awareness, support, and hope.

Using Public Health Reports to Drive Change

The discussion examines how annual Director of Public Health Reports can be used as powerful tools for advocacy and engagement. Lincoln explains how his team’s recent women’s health report placed lived experience and community voices at its centre, helping to bring important issues to the attention of decision-makers and the wider public.

Influencing Health Through Strategic Leadership

Lincoln reflects on the value of public health leaders having a seat at the corporate leadership table within local government. He explains how close engagement with senior leaders can strengthen public health influence across services ranging from housing and education to economic development and transport.

Mentorship, Authenticity, and Advice for Future Leaders

The episode concludes with Lincoln’s reflections on mentorship, leadership, and personal development. He shares advice for aspiring public health leaders, encouraging them to embrace their unique experiences, remain visible within their communities, and trust their instincts when navigating complex challenges.

Listen Now

Listen to hear how community roots, lifelong curiosity, and authentic leadership continue to shape public health in Torbay, from crisis response and suicide prevention to innovative storytelling and community engagement.

🎧 Listen to the full episode of Public Health Spotlight with Lincoln, Director of Public Health for Torbay.