Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Shaping a healthier, more sustainable future
The Centre for Health Promotion Research (CHPR) at Leeds Beckett University is a leading force in public health innovation, actively contributing to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this blog post, Professor Anne-Marie Bagnall shares how the Centre is supporting some of society's most urgent challenges - from empowering communities to improve their health and wellbeing to reducing health inequalities.
At the Centre for Health Promotion Research LBU we are advancing the SDGs through community-focused research, global partnerships, and evidence-based health initiatives.
With a mission to improve health outcomes locally and globally, our work aligns with several key SDGs, particularly those focused on Good Health and Well-being and Reducing Health Inequalities.
SDG 3: Good health and well-being: Community-Centred Health Promotion
At the heart of CHPR's approach is a commitment to empowering communities. Our research explores how individuals and groups can take greater control over their health through community-centred approaches such as volunteering, peer education, and asset-based approaches. By fostering active citizenship and supporting community health workers, our research helps build resilient, health-literate populations - directly supporting SDG 3's aim to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all ages.
SDG 17: Strengthening partnerships for sustainable development: Collaborative Research and Global Impact
CHPR maintains a broad and integrated research programme that spans local, national, and international contexts. Our past and present partnerships with organisations like Public Health England, the Health Determinants Research Collaboration in Wakefield and involvement in the Northern Universities' Public Health Alliance amplifies our impact. These collaborations enable CHPR to contribute to global health dialogues and influence policy, supporting SDG 17's goal of strengthening partnerships for sustainable development.
A key focus of CHPR is addressing social determinants of health. Our participatory research with disadvantaged communities highlights the importance of inclusive health strategies. By studying lay health workers and community resilience, CHPR contributes to reducing health disparities - advancing SDG 10's mission to reduce inequality within and among countries.
Evidence-Based Policy and Practice
CHPR is dedicated to translating research into practice. Through seminars, publications, and policy engagement, we disseminate findings that shape health promotion strategies. This evidence-based approach ensures that interventions are effective, scalable, and sustainable - critical for achieving long-term progress across multiple SDGs.
The centre also plays a vital role in developing future public health leaders. Our postgraduate programmes and training initiatives equip professionals with the skills to implement community-centred health promotion. This investment in education supports SDG 4's goal of ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.
Through community engagement, collaborative research, and a commitment to equity, CHPR is helping shape a healthier, more sustainable future.
Professor Anne-Marie Bagnall
Anne-Marie Bagnall is Professor of Health and Wellbeing Evidence and Director of the Centre for Health Promotion Research at Leeds Beckett University. Her research aims to improve people's health and wellbeing and reduce health inequalities.
