Policy and consultancy

Jamie Hale in a blue shirt with red hair, glasses and beard
Jamie’s face. They are white, with dark red hair, red glasses, a dark red beard, and are wearing a blue plaid shirt. Their head is on a wheelchair headrest.

An expert in Health and Social Care policy and consultancy, I am currently working as CEO of Pathfinders Neuromuscular Alliance. I am also working with Lewisham Council on a consultancy basis, where I chair the Disabled People’s Commission. Alongside this, I am studying for a MA in Philosophy, Politics and Economics of Health at University College London. My research projects there have included charging in adult social care, and direct payments as a cost-saving measure.

Freelance policy and consultancy

Lewisham Disabled People’s Commission

As Chair of Lewisham Disabled People’s Commission, I lead a groundbreaking research project. This explores the experiences of d/Deaf and disabled people living in Lewisham. It has led to discussions in the council at the highest level around co-production. Through this role, I was also able to provide a direct line into the council during the COVID-19 pandemic.

My primary policy interests are around social care and independent living, alongside the broader scope of health and social care. I have a background in the Disabled People’s movement and student politics. This included a term as Disabled Students’ Officer during my undergraduate degree.

Disability arts research, policy and consultancy

Through CRIPtic Arts I am carrying out research projects on the experiences of d/Deaf and disabled people in accessing literature events alongside Spread the Word. I am also leading two further projects. One of these is on people with the highest access needs and their access to theatre careers in London. The other aims to build a consensus around what degree of access provision is minimally fundamental, and what should happen to projects that do not provide this.

I am also sitting on a panel for Arts Council England. This offers advice and support on a new project which is soon to be rolled out.

Pathfinders Neuromuscular Alliance

As CEO of Pathfinders Neuromuscular Alliance, I jointly run the largest user-led organisation for people with neuromuscular conditions in Europe. We focus on support, campaigning, policy, research, and advocacy, and our direction is set entirely by our members and trustees. This role works towards influencing the national picture for disabled people, especially those with neuromuscular conditions.

My work at Pathfinders is currently focused on funding, development, strategy and implementing organisational change. I am working in the context of a rapidly growing charity alongside a wide range of stakeholders.