Member blog: Claire McIver

‘What does public health actually do?’ is a question many of us have been asked — and it is not always easy to answer. During the pandemic, the role of public health became much more visible, but even then, it only showed one part of what we do. Much of our work happens behind the scenes: shaping healthier places, preventing illness, reducing inequalities, influencing policy, and working with communities and partners to improve people’s lives. 

I didn’t set out with a clear plan to work in public health. I first encountered it while working as a temp in a Health Promotion directorate, posting out materials on a wide range of health topics to schools and professionals. It was a modest starting point, but it opened my eyes to the breadth of public health and the difference it can make, and the more I learned, the more I realised it aligned with my own core values. That early exposure sparked an interest that has stayed with me throughout my career. 

I’ve worked in public health for over 25 years in various roles in the NHS and local government, and I’ve honestly loved it all. My current role is Director of Public Health (DPH) for Cheshire East Council. This is my first DPH role, and I’m thoroughly enjoying it so far. The team are great, there’s a huge amount of experience and expertise for me to draw from, and as I’ve found in all my roles, the passion and dedication from those working across the health and care system is palpable. 

I’m a huge advocate of public health as a career because there’s so much variety and I’ve always felt that the work is so rewarding. There’s a real sense of pride from knowing you might have contributed to improving people’s wellbeing or life chances. I’ll always take opportunities to raise awareness or support others into this career path, and as someone who gained specialty registration via Portfolio, I’m proactive in supporting others through this route as well as pushing for its parity. 

Over the years I’ve learned that you need to apply a good balance of patience, tenacity, kindness, and flexibility to do the job effectively. Having the support of colleagues and peers who work in the field is invaluable, and I find it really helps being connected to likeminded professionals via the ADPH network. I find the BriePH newsletter particularly helpful for highlighting new policy developments, opportunities for collaboration, and sharing of good practice, which helps me stay up to date when the day job is so busy.   

Public health is rarely straightforward, but its complexity is part of what makes it such meaningful and interesting work — the opportunity to improve lives, reduce inequalities, and work alongside committed colleagues is what continues to motivate me.