The final workshop in the KBS Alumni Summer School 2025 brings together years of research, real-world experience, and critical policy insight to examine one of the most pressing challenges in UK healthcare: widening health inequalities. Hosted by returning speakers Dr Simon Fletcher and Dr Catherine Marchand, this engaging session explores the complex relationship between NHS policy dynamics and health outcomes across different population groups.
Date: Friday 4 July
⏰ Time: 2pm-4pm BST (arrive 1.30pm for registration)
Where: MBA Suite in Sibson and online
Pricing: This is a free event. Registration is now open.
Register now
Why attend this workshop?
This session invites alumni and guests to critically reflect on the disconnects between national policy and local healthcare realities, and what these gaps mean for individuals, families, and communities.
Key areas of discussion will include:
- The impact of shifting NHS priorities on service delivery
- The policy mechanisms that shape access and equity in healthcare
- How the design and implementation of health strategies influence inequality
- Real-world examples of how policy intent diverges from patient experience
This thought-provoking workshop will provide valuable insight for anyone working in, or interested in, health policy, public service, or social justice. It will also offer space for alumni to share their own experiences of working within the NHS or similar systems internationally.
Meet the workshop hosts
This is the third year that Dr Simon Fletcher and Dr Catherine Marchand have led a workshop at the KBS Alumni Summer School, and their sessions are always among the most popular.
Dr Simon Fletcher is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Kent’s Centre for Health Services Studies (CHSS). His research focuses on healthcare systems, inequalities, and patient-centred service delivery. With a background in sociology and public health, Simon brings a deep understanding of how policy frameworks intersect with everyday healthcare experiences.
Dr Catherine Marchand, also a Senior Research Fellow at CHSS, specialises in health systems, patient engagement, and the translation of research into impactful policy. She brings both academic and applied insight to discussions around the social determinants of health and the challenges of making policy work for diverse populations.
Why attend the KBS Alumni Summer School?
This workshop is part of the award-winning KBS Alumni Summer School, offering free up-skilling and networking opportunities for our alumni community. This session is one of two taking place on Friday 4 July, creating a full day of engaging content for those who can join us in person at the Sibson building. The day will conclude with networking drinks, so why not make a day of it?
All workshops are hybrid, meaning alumni and guests can also join from anywhere in the world via Microsoft Teams. Whether you are on campus or online, the Summer School offers a unique chance to reconnect, refresh your thinking, and grow your network.
Who should attend?
This session will be of particular interest to KBS alumni (UG, PG, MBA) working in or alongside the healthcare sector, public policy, research, or community organisations. Students, staff, healthcare staff and local businesses are also welcome to attend too.
Come join us for a powerful discussion on healthcare, policy, and equity to close out the 2025 Alumni Summer School!