We welcomed Fraser Bell to the CTP team in September as our new Research and Analysis Manager. Fraser brings an abundance of talent and experience to CTP – we’re thrilled to have him on board to oversee key research activities and help us build the positive relationships our organisation thrives upon. Fraser’s introductory blog spans career highlights so far, his route to CTP – and his devotion to Barrow AFC.

I come from an academic background originally, having graduated from a PhD at the Centre for Urban and Regional Studies (CURDS) at Newcastle University in 2016. My thesis explored the reputations of English second-tier cities, and included interviews conducted in Bristol, Hull and NewcastleGateshead. I then took on analytical roles in both Scottish local government and the transport sector.

However, it was my move to the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) where I began to specialise. Here, by providing analytical support for strategic initiatives and latterly the embedded researcher for the SIPHER project (www.sipher.ac.uk), I became driven by the persistent inequalities that are having an impact on life chances of residents across the city-region.

The SIPHER role complemented both academic and policy experiences, the highlight being developing a synthetic population for Greater Manchester to better inform the development of policies that are equipped to reduce health inequalities in the conurbation. During this time I became fascinated by the links between health, housing and employment, including how good jobs and better housing conditions can uplift public health.

I initially became drawn to the role at CTP through a desire to work as an out-and-out researcher again but more importantly I saw an opportunity to apply my knowledge, skills and experience towards a cause that strongly aligns with my own values.

‘I enjoy nothing more than bringing different groups of people together in pursuit of a common goal’

I work closely with Lisa, our Head of Research and Adekemi, our Data Analyst, with a responsibility for overseeing the journey from indicator identification and raw data collection to developing research outputs which fulfil the aims and objectives of CTP and its partner organisations.

I hope my time here will allow me to build on the positive relationships I have developed throughout my career, starting with my PhD. I enjoy nothing more than bringing different groups of people together in pursuit of a common goal!

Talking of goals, outside work I’m a huge football fan and love following my team Barrow AFC home and away – as well as contributing to our recently relaunched fanzine Give ’Em Beans. I am also partial to a lovely walk, lifting weights, listening to indie bands from 15 years ago and comedy and sports podcasts. I also love trying out new pubs! I’m based in Stockport, Greater Manchester but I originally hail from Whitley Bay in the North East of England.

Fraser Bell, Research and Analysis Manager

Would you like practical support to help shift your organisation, community or region to a Wellbeing Economy approach? CTP is here to help. Get in touch at hello@centreforthrivingplaces.org