Close Biography of Health Technology Wales, Patient and Public Involvement Manager Alice Evans
PPI Group Chair Before joining Health Technology Wales, Alice designed a curriculum of skills training for paediatric clients of the Posture and Mobility All Wales Service in partnership with patients and families. Afterwards, Alice worked in continuing healthcare (CHC) with south and east localities to develop training to improve understanding of CHC and dementia care across South Wales in partnership with care home networks and NHS. Now at Health Technology Wales, Alice is responsible for providing information support to patients, patient organisations, carers and members of the public.

Close Biography of PPI advisor Heidi Livingstone Heidi has over 28 years of experience in the NHS, including 19 years at the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). For 13 years, she specialised in patient involvement in Health Technology Appraisals (HTAs), focusing on whether medicines offer value for money for the NHS in England. Her work included developing involvement processes, training patient organisations, and supporting lay committee members—particularly in the context of rare and ultra-rare diseases. She was also active in Health Technology Assessment International’s Patient and Citizens Interest Group (HTAi PCIG), serving on its steering group and leading international projects. Notably, she contributed to the development of the International Summary of Information for Patients (SIP), a plain English document designed to help patients engage in HTAs.

Close Biography of PPI advisor John Gallanders John Gallanders is a volunteer leader and trustee with extensive experience in community health, heritage, and research engagement. He plays a central role in the Wrexham Miners Project, linking history, wellbeing, and education. John has worked with universities, funders, and local partners to promote inclusive volunteering, public involvement, and collaborative research. His interests include patient and public involvement in health studies, accessible communication of research findings, and building strong community–academic partnerships.

Close Biography of PPI advisor and Public Partner Julie Hepburn Julie has been a Public Involvement member of the HTW Team since 2024. Her experience covers 10 years in PPI work following a successfully treated stage 3 colon cancer. Her PPI experience includes membership of two NICE Guideline Committees, Lay Lead Research Partner for both the Wales Cancer Research Centre and for the Cardiff Experimental Cancer Research Centre, as well as membership of many Trial Management Groups and Steering Committees. She is particularly interested in early diagnosis of and targeted treatments for cancer and also in attracting commercial firms to invest in cancer trials and health related developments in Wales.

Close Biography of PPI advisor and Public Partner Robert McAlister Bob is a member of the public who comments on health and care research matters. He is a public research partner at the Wales Cancer Research Centre and he is on a board that advises on research access to Care Homes. His public involvement has taken him to UK level representation. In his working life he was employed in teaching, policing and school attendance.

Close Biography of PPI advisor Tony Esmond Tony is a former NHS professional with over two decades of experience, beginning as a Mental Health Nurse specialising in Elderly Care. His leadership journey led him through roles in service commissioning, quality management across NHS Trusts and GP practices, and senior positions including Assistant Director of Nursing. Tony has also served as an EMI Advisor for Social Services and was a member of the Wales Quality Centre.Following his diagnosis with an ultra-rare genetic condition, Tony became a dedicated advocate for rare illnesses. He serves as a Trustee for the society supporting his condition and is an active voice on multiple advisory committees, including LOWMAG and forums within the South Wales Police Commissioner’s Office. Through national conferences, educational media, and international exhibitions, Tony continues to raise awareness, elevate lived experience, and champion inclusion for individuals with rare conditions.

Close Biography of PPI advisor Versha Sood Mahindra, BEM Versha is a nationally recognised dementia care leader and received the British Empire Medal for her services to community cohesion and dementia support. She leads dementia strategy for Cardiff and Vale RPB and contributes to national policy, research, and inclusive engagement. Currently serving as a Visiting Fellow at the University of South Wales, she co-leads the Ethnic Minority Research Advisory Group (EMRAG). Versha is also a trustee for Cardiff Women’s Aid, a governor at Eastern High School, and an ambassador for the Alzheimer’s Society. She has held advisory roles with South Wales Police and the Housing Support National Advisory Board. As a PPI member she champions co-production and person-centred innovation in health technology. She has a deep belief in dignity, diversity, and the power of collaboration.