Faith in Practice: Exploring the Role of Religious Identity in Healthcare

Join Dr YingFei Héliot (University of Surrey) and special guests for an inspiring evening that delves into how religion, belief, and identity shape the everyday experiences of healthcare staff and patients.

Building on ground-breaking national research with NHS Employers, this event brings together healthcare professionals, chaplains, researchers, and community members for an open and thought-provoking conversation about inclusion, wellbeing, and belonging in healthcare.

You’ll experience a powerful short film capturing the real voices and stories of NHS staff of faith, followed by a lively discussion with experts and practitioners who are working to make healthcare spaces more inclusive and compassionate. Alongside the panel, there will be opportunities to connect with colleagues, students, and local community members who share a passion for equality and understanding in healthcare.

Our guest speakers include:

• Professor Jagtar Singh, OBE, former Chair, Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust

• Paul Deemer, former Head of Diversity and Inclusion, NHS Employers

• Reverend Heather Wilson, Lead Chaplain, Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust

Whether you work in the NHS or private sector, teach, study, or simply care about how identity and inclusion shape our healthcare system, this event offers a welcoming space to listen, reflect, and be inspired. You’ll leave with practical insights, new connections, and a deeper appreciation for the many ways faith and belief influence the culture of care.

This event is supported by the Economic and Social Research Council and forms part of the ESRC Festival of Social Science 2025. See our full programme here. Buy tickets – University of Surrey . Please review the University of Surrey's Privacy Notice regarding events here.