WORCESTERSHIRE’S Director of Public Health, Lisa McNally has been awarded The Sarah Stewart Brown Award for Public Mental Health for 2026.
The award recognises those within the Faculty of Public Health who have played a significant role in the development or implementation of an innovative approach to promoting mental health and wellbeing.
Lisa has been commended for her work to promote better mental health by working directly with communities, encouraging local groups to provide support in their local area.
The award also highlights Lisa’s work nationally, campaigning for more attention to addressing mental health in all ages, as well as promotional work to reduce stigma around mental health.
This award is sponsored by Professor Sarah Stewart Brown, who for the last 20 years has devoted herself to developing and promoting public mental health in the Faculty of Public Health and in other settings.
It is also supported by the Public Mental Health Special Interest Group with the aim of encouraging and promoting leadership and innovation in public mental health in the UK.
Lisa said: “I don’t see this as an individual award. Rather, it reflects a lot of great work from the Worcestershire Public Health Team and community groups across the County.
“I do have some mixed feelings because the evidence suggests mental health is getting worse in the UK.
“We need more focus on this issue and ensure everyone, of all ages, have timely access to support. There is so much more to do to improve mental wellbeing, including in children and adults in Worcestershire.
Coun Alan Bailes, cabinet member for health and wellbeing at Worcestershire County Council added: “This achievement is a testament not only to Lisa’s personal dedication and leadership, but also to the hard work and commitment of the wider Public Health team.
“Their collective efforts have made a meaningful difference to the wellbeing of communities across Worcestershire, and it is wonderful to see that impact acknowledged at a national level.”
Lisa received the award at Faculty of Public Health national meeting last week.
