Dr Anne Whittaker

I am a clinical academic with over 30 years’ experience working in the Health Service, Social Services and Higher Education as a mental health and addictions nurse, primary care facilitator, manager, academic, advanced practitioner in clinical research, project manager and research leader. I have worked in Australia, London and Edinburgh in a variety of clinical areas including learning disabilities, mental health, addictions, HIV, Hepatitis C and services for people with multiple and complex needs. I have a special interest in substance use within the context of pregnancy, parenting, and family life and have developed a programme of research around addictions within the family and have published in this area. My research has included qualitative studies on the quality and delivery of care from the perspective of parents on opioid substitution therapy, as well as mixed methods feasibility studies on family-focused interventions for drug-dependent parents. I am passionate about reducing inequalities and improving the care of families affected by substance use.