Dr Simon R. Stones

Profile

Simon is a Medical Writer and Multi-Award Winning Health Advocate. He has an academic background in Biomedical Sciences and Healthcare. His PhD, undertaken at the University of Leeds between 2016 and 2021, explored the self- and shared-management of juvenile arthritis. He was recognised in 2019 and 2020 as one of the top 100 most influential people with health conditions in the United Kingdom, and is regarded as an international patient leader in rheumatology and patient engagement.

Simon’s research focuses on helping young people with juvenile idiopathic arthritis to better manage their conditions, in partnership with their families, and other professionals involved in their healthcare, wellbeing, and education. As part of his PhD, Simon conducted a realist evaluation using qualitative research methods, in order to develop a new framework to guide future intervention development and implementation. Simon has also conducted research in rheumatology more broadly, as well as in the field of patient engagement and involvement. 

Before completing his PhD in healthcare studies, Simon graduated from The University of Manchester with a first class BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Sciences with Industrial/Professional Experience. During that time, Simon spent twelve months in an international healthcare consultancy, providing insight-led, evidence-driven analysis, strategy and communications, for clients in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and related sectors. Simon worked across a number of disease areas, including neurology, oncology, respiratory, and rheumatology. After completing his PhD, Simon transitioned into medical communications as a Medical Writer, working across a number of project types and therapeutic areas for biopharmaceutical clients.  

Simon is an Associate Fellow of the Royal Commonwealth Society, Trustee and Secretary for RAiISE, and has held a number of national and international positions related to his advocacy work, including the role of President of the European Network of Fibromyalgia Associations.

Research interests

Simon has a strong interest in the supported self-management of long-term health conditions, particularly among young people living with musculoskeletal diseases. In his PhD, he used realist evaluation as a theory-driven approach to the development and implementation of complex interventions. He also has expertise related to patient and public involvement and engagement with research, and patient involvement in publications. Simon has supported and undertaken a variety of research activities related to rheumatology and musculoskeletal diseases. Simon has also worked on the role of digital technology in supporting self-management, transitional care between paediatric and adult healthcare services, engaging young people in clinical trials, and developing core outcome sets.

Qualifications

• BSc (Hons) Biomedical Sciences with Industrial/Professional Experience, The University of Manchester
• PhD Healthcare

Research groups and institutes

• Maternal, child and family health