Public Health Spotlight S2 EP3 – Stoke-on-Trent City Council

Building Healthier Communities: Stephen’s Vision for Stoke-on-Trent

In this episode of Public Health Spotlights, Stephen, Director of Public Health at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, sits down to share his unique journey from nutrition student to city leader, revealing what drives his commitment to community wellbeing. Stephen’s path takes us from early influences in personal loss, through hands-on public health practice and policy work across Europe, to leading multi-faceted services in one of the UK’s most dynamic and challenged cities.

Personal Experience, Professional Purpose

From a formative experience of family bereavement and the tragic loss of friends, Stephen describes how these events shaped a lifelong dedication to creating supportive environments for others. Witnessing first-hand the impact of social and mental health challenges, he found himself compelled to act, seeking ways to make a difference through public health.

A Career Without Borders

Stephen’s early career saw him increase physical activity in primary care, work at national and European levels, and navigate the transition of public health into local government. Working with 16 EU member states, he learned the value of diplomacy, empathy, and seeking common ground skills now central to his work in Stoke-on-Trent’s diverse communities. He reflects on the importance of listening and building coalition, whether at an international table or on the ground in local neighborhoods.

Innovating for Impact in Stoke-on-Trent

As Director, Stephen holds a broad portfolio: public health, leisure and wellbeing, trading standards, bereavement care, and domestic abuse services. He explains how this integration enables creative solutions investing commercial revenue from leisure services back into social initiatives, and weaving community voices into programmed design. A major focus is on reducing health inequalities: addressing mental ill health, addiction, and delivering the “Family Matters” initiative, which draws on trusted local organization’s to strengthen families and reconnect Stoke’s six towns.

Listening, Learning, and Measuring Success

Stephen is clear: success is measured not just by figures but by the lived experiences of communities. Through continual feedback from families, faith groups, and grassroots partners, his team tailors and evolves support where it’s needed most. One stand-out achievement? Launching a sustainable exercise referral programmed that’s been running for nearly 20 years, and leading an award-nominated campaign to boost MMR vaccination rates through open engagement and flexible delivery proving that trust and adaptation are as important as strategy

Advice for Aspiring Leaders

For those considering a career in public health leadership, Stephen advises casting your net wide to gain diverse experience, know your community, and always seek to understand both the “big P” and “little p” politics. His leadership ethos: support and enable others, deliver on promises, and keep community needs at the heart of decision-making.

Looking Ahead: United Strength

As Stoke-on-Trent celebrates its centenary, Stephen shares his vision for the future: united action across sectors, more joined-up work with business and investors, and a relentless focus on homes, jobs, and connected communities. The city’s motto United Strength is Stronger rings true in his drive to harness collective power for lasting change.

Listen now via the link below or find us on your preferred podcast platform. Stay tuned for more conversations spotlighting those building healthier communities across the UK.