Jane McDermott

FRSA - Consultant - Healthy Ageing and Policy Research - Socio-Ecological Thinker - Leadership Coach and Transformation Practitioner

Jane McDermott is a prominent figure in the field of health and social care, particularly focusing on healthy ageing and policy research. She currently serves as the Policy Research Unit Manager for Older People at the University of Manchester, where she leads operations and collaborations within the National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR) Older People and Frailty Policy Research Unit (OPFPRU) .1 2

Professional Background

With over 25 years of experience, McDermott has held various roles, including strategic relations and impact lead, senior programme manager, and consultant across multiple organizations. Her work primarily revolves around complex programme leadership, project management, and policy influencing in health ageing, social inclusion, and wellbeing .2 3

McDermott is also a member of the Healthy Ageing Research Group at the University of Manchester, contributing significantly to initiatives aimed at improving the lives of older adults. She has been involved in numerous national and international projects, including her role in the European Innovation Partnership on Active and Healthy Ageing (EIP AHA) .1 2

Key Contributions

Her efforts have included:

Leading initiatives to prevent falls among older adults through the Prevention of Falls Network for Dissemination (ProFouND).
Serving as a knowledge broker and strategic relationship lead in various high-level groups focused on health and social care policy .2 3
Engaging with community groups and underrepresented populations to ensure their voices are included in research processes .1

In addition to her research and leadership roles, McDermott is recognized for her work as an executive coach, supporting leaders from public, charitable, and third-sector organizations .2 3

Personal Life

Outside her professional commitments, Jane McDermott is actively involved in her community as a foster parent to early career Paralympic swimmers. She enjoys outdoor activities such as fell walking, wild swimming, cycling, and cooking .2 3

Overall, Jane McDermott's extensive experience and commitment to healthy ageing make her a key contributor to advancing policies that support older populations.