Dr Elizabeth Jenkinson, Associate Professor in Health Psychology at University of the West of England, has been awarded the British Psychological Society Division of Health Psychology Chair’s Mentoring Award for 2025.
The award recognises Liz’s outstanding contribution to the discipline of health psychology through her long-standing commitment to mentoring early- and mid-career psychologists, academic colleagues, practitioners and peers across the profession.
Over many years, Liz has played a pivotal role in supporting career development in health psychology, combining academic rigour with a deeply person-centred approach to mentorship. Mentees consistently highlight her ability to understand where individuals are in their professional journeys and to provide insight, challenge and encouragement that supports confidence, growth and long-term success.
“She has a rare ability to truly see her mentees – understanding where they are in their journey, what matters to them and what they need to move forward. Rather than prescribing, she offers insight, challenge and encouragement in a way that empowers ownership and development.”
Alongside her work at UWE Bristol, Liz has been instrumental in shaping national career pathways for health psychologists within the NHS. Since 2021, she has championed the role and value of health psychology through her secondment as NHS England National Training Director for Health Psychology. In this role, she led the recent pilot programme of NHS-funded training in health psychology, helping to expand access to training and strengthen employment opportunities across England.
Her leadership has also had a tangible impact on the profession. Dr Adrian Whittington, Clinical Lead for Psychological Professions at NHS England, highlighted Liz’s role in raising the profile of health psychology nationally and increasing employment opportunities within the NHS.
Dr Amy Baraniak, Chair of the Division of Health Psychology, described Liz as an exemplary role model and a passionate advocate for health psychology, recognising her as a very deserving recipient of this year’s award.
Reflecting on the recognition, Liz said she was particularly pleased to receive the award because of her strong belief in the power of mentorship to strengthen the profession. She noted how meaningful it was to receive messages of support from colleagues and former mentees across her career, many of whom are now successful alumni working across psychology and related disciplines.
Liz will be formally presented with the award at the British Psychological Society Division of Health Psychology Conference in Liverpool in June 2026.