​Heather works with policy-makers and NGOs to change how we recognise and respond to lookism and appearance bullying. Appearance bullying is the most prevalent form of bullying, and one which is not well understood.

Realising the Value of the Humanities

Heather was on a panel ‘Realising the Value of the Humanities’ at the WONKHE Festival of Higher Education on 13 Nov 2024. The panel was chaired by Jo Fox (Pro-Vice Chancellor Research and Public Engagement of the School of Advanced Studies, University of London), and fellow panellists were David Amigoni (Pro-Vice Chancellor Research and Innovation) and Graeme Wise (Director of Strategic Programmes and Engagement).​

British Philosophy Fortnight at Houses of Parliament

Heather was on a panel at the Houses of Parliament on 20 March 2025. The event was held to launch the first Philosophy Fortnight and to say why philosophy matters for science, industry and policy, as well as for improving daily life and individual well-being. The panel chaired by Ritula Shah broadcaster and journalist (The World Tonight, Woman's Hour, Classic FM), and hosted by Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle. Other panel members were Ian Dunt (author, journalist and broadcaster), John Lloyd CBE (producer and writer) and Emma Swinn. MBE (Co-Director of SAPERE). #PhilosophyMatters

Evidence to Parliamentary Inquiry

Heather gives evidence to Inquiry on the ​impact of body image on health.
​View full session here

Partnerships with NGO's

Discussions with MP's and NGO's

Body Image as Public Health Issue , with Dr Luke Evans MP, GP and Conservative MP for Bosworth, and Dr Antonis Kousoulis, Director of The Mental Health Foundation.
Appearance bullying and Lookism, with Bell Ribeiro-Addy MP, Labour MP for Streatham, Martha Evans, Director of The Anti-Bullying Alliance  and Phyllida Swift, CEO of Face Equality International.
Body Image and Mental Health, with Chris Evans MP, Labour and Co-operative MP for Islwyn, and Steph Bird, Communications and PR for Girlguiding Birmingham.

Membership of policy making bodies

Member of Nuffield Council on Bioethics (June 2014 – June 2020)
​Member of UK Biobank Ethics and Governance Council (2007-2013).