Dr. John Richmond, Senior Researcher at the Policy Insights Forum (PIF), has been awarded a Networking Grant from the Academy of Medical Sciences (UK) to establish a trans disciplinary network to advance research on mental health preparedness, response, and resilience to climate and weather extremes. This builds upon the Health System Resilience for Extreme Weather Emergencies network founded by Dr. Richmond, a Lecturer and Program Director in Healthcare Management and Leadership at the University of Sheffield (UK), in 2023. This application for funding was co-led with Professor Sherilee Harper, Canada Research Chair in Climate Change and Health, at the University of Alberta.

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The £24,645 ($43,900 CAD) in funding will support collaborations between researchers in Canada, the UK, and globally, through a series of in-person and virtual networking events aimed at strengthening global research capacity. This funding allows Dr. Richmond and Professor Harper to grow an international network of experts from various research fields to share knowledge, set research priorities, and generate insight towards effective solutions to improve mental health readiness, response, and resilience in communities vulnerable to extreme weather events. The first workshop will be held from July 23 to 25 at the University of Alberta.

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The work is anticipated to have wider societal benefits, including for vulnerable populations and first responders effected by extreme weather, and to improve response planning and policy for government agencies, health systems, and community organizations, who provide aid within these communities.  

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Dr. Richmond will provide updates on the Conference through the PIF’s blog and social media channels.