Diane Willis

Diane Willis is a Lecturer at Edinburgh Napier University’s School of Health and Social Care, with an honorary contract at NHS Borders. A registered nurse and psychologist, she bridges healthcare equity, intellectual disability, and cancer care through interdisciplinary research.

• Key focus: reducing health disparities in cancer screening and bereavement support for vulnerable communities.
• Collaborations: NHS Lothian, The Society of Cancer and Intellectual Disabilities, and Family Advice and Information Resource (FAIR).

Research Trends: Her 15 most recent publications span HPV vaccination communication, ICU discharge experiences, antibiotic prescribing behavior, and arts-based interventions for end-of-life discussions. Themes emphasize accessibility, cultural adaptation, and policy reform.

Scientific Recognition:

• Nursing Times 2020 Learning Disability category finalist
• Recipient of NMAHP Award for Cancer Screening Handbook proposal
• RCN conference best paper nominee (2014)

Leadership & Advocacy: She chairs FAIR, organizes international cancer symposiums, and advises on NICE guidelines. Her work on menopause in women with intellectual disabilities influenced national health checks.