Social and healthcare advocate. Name: Penny RichardsonCategory: Supporter & person with lived experienceRole: Social and healthcare advocateTime active in Edinburgh: 1970s Penny, a health advocate and person with lived experience, has been at the forefront of shaping patient-centred care in Edinburgh since the 1970s. Collaborating closely with the University of Edinburgh's Medical School and other local health entities, Penny has played a critical role in pivotal health movements and research initiatives, advocating for inclusive and equitable health practices. Her commitment is evidenced through key contributions to significant health campaigns and projects. Notably, Penny's involvement in the Scottish Women's Health Fair in 1983, and the Head On project from 1982 to 1989, and the Cervical Smear Campaign from 1985 into the 90s, underscore her dedication to women's health and mental health issues. In addition to her advocacy, Penny has had a substantive impact as a patient representative, lending her voice and experience to the NHS Lothian Co-Design Group at the Edinburgh Cancer Centre and contributing significantly to the Innovative Health Care Delivery Programme. This article was published on 2026-03-12
