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Dr Lesley Williamson
Name:
Dr Lesley Williamson
Job title:
Postdoctoral researcher
Place of work / study:
King’s College London
Area of Research:
My primary area of research is integrated palliative dementia care, from diagnosis to end of life. I am also interested in evidence use in policy and practice.
How is your work funded:
Marie Curie and Alzheimer’s Society
Tell us a little about yourself:
I work as a postdoctoral researcher at the Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, King’s College London. Over the past 20 years, I have worked across the voluntary and statutory sectors, in commissioning and provider arms, and supported people affected by dementia across different clinical settings as an NHS doctor. More recently, alongside my ongoing work in dementia research, I serve as a trustee of the charity Arts for Dementia and support their research and evaluation activities. I always aim for my research to have the potential to make a difference in the real-world, so prioritise principles of co-production and implementation science, and draw on insights from clinical practice, medical leadership, and experience as a National Medical Director’s Clinical Fellow and UK Parliamentary research intern.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
I used to be the proud owner of a blue and white Mini Mayfair. Loved that car!
Why did you choose to work in dementia?
I have a longstanding and deep-rooted commitment to improving dementia care. After several years’ working as a doctor and supporting people affected by dementia, I pursued a PhD in palliative dementia care at King’s College London. During this time, I completed a 10-month Parliamentary research internship, reporting to a Peer in the House of Lords. From this experience, it became clear to me that I could improve dementia care as a researcher generating evidence to influence the system, rather than as a practitioner working within the limits of the system. This inspired me to pursue a career in dementia research.
What single piece of advise would you give to an early career researcher?
Meaningfully engage your stakeholders and adopt a systems approach to help improve the impact potential of your work.
What book are you reading right now? Would you recommend it?
I recently finished The Secret Scriptures by Sebastian Barry, which was a good read.
Favourite film of all time?
Favourite ways to unplug and unwind?
If I’m not walking around the nearest woodland or national park, I’m spending time with my family. I’d also say listening to music, but I listen to music all the time!
What’s the best decision you’ve ever made?
Marrying my best friend.
What’s the best vacation spot?
Anywhere, it’s a vacation!
Do you collect anything?
No.
