At today’s Faculty of Public Health Distinction and Awards Ceremony, Dr. Sarah Jones and Professor Adrian Davis were announced as joint winners of the prestigious Bazalgette Professorship Champion of Evidence Award, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to improving public health through transport policy and infrastructure.
Dr Sarah Jones has spent over 15 years translating road safety research into real-world policy. Her work on Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) has shaped UK discourse on young driver safety, while her modelling of the public health benefits of 20mph default speed limits played a pivotal role in Wales’ national adoption of the policy in 2023. Sarah’s evidence-led advocacy has directly influenced government decision-making and led to measurable reductions in road casualties and wider health benefits.
Professor Adrian Davis, a leading figure in transport and health integration for over three decades, is celebrated for his critical role in bridging the gap between transport research and policy. He authored the first transport policy statement by a national medical association, co-founded the Journal of Transport and Health, and led Bristol’s 20mph city-wide programme, credited with a 63% reduction in road fatalities. As Chair of the Welsh Government’s Data and Evidence Group, his expertise was central to the successful implementation of Wales’ 20mph default limit.
Both recipients will deliver the Bazalgette Lecture next year, with further details to be announced.
