Hannah Spring

Dr. Hannah Spring is an Associate Professor in Research and Evidence-Based Health Practice at the School of Science, Technology and Health at York St John University. She holds a PhD from the University of Leeds and has over 20 years of experience in health information management, education, and research. Her work focuses on evidence-based healthcare, health literacy, and social justice, particularly addressing the needs of refugees and asylum seekers. She leads teaching modules on research methods, evidence-based practice, and health literacy within occupational therapy programs.

Education:

• PhD in Health Librarianship, University of Leeds
• Postgraduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education, University of Huddersfield
• BA (Hons) in Library and Information Studies, Leeds Metropolitan University

Research Interests:

Dr. Spring’s research emphasizes priority-setting in health services, refugee integration, and the role of health literacy in pandemic response. She collaborates with global organizations like the WHO and The Economist on policy development and rapid reviews. Her community projects include a refugee-focused allotment in York, blending occupational therapy with advocacy.

Professional Activities:

• Editorial board member of the Health Information and Libraries Journal
• External examiner for PhD submissions at Loughborough University
• Consultant for organizations such as the Royal College of Occupational Therapists and Help for Heroes

Grants and Funding:

Her work has informed national and global health policies, including contributions to WHO guidelines on HIV treatment and pandemic response.

Lab/Team:

She oversees the refugee community allotment project, fostering collaboration between students and sanctuary seekers to explore occupational therapy’s role in social integration.