Ruth McGovern

I am a Professor of Public Health and Social Care at the Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University and a NIHR Population Health Career Science Fellow. My research aims to promote social justice through improving health and social care for children and families under stress. In particular, my research focuses upon developing and evaluating interventions for children and families living in poverty and/or affected by substance use, mental health and domestic violence. I was recently awarded an NIHR Population Health Career Scientist Fellowship to develop a poverty-informed approach to preventing mental health problems in children and families experiencing disadvantage. Alongside this I lead a large programme of social care and mental health research.

I have a professional background in social work and counselling. Throughout my professional career I specialised in drug and alcohol treatment, working in a range of therapeutic and social care settings.