Rory Hegarty

Rory Hegarty is a senior communications and community engagement specialist with over 30 years’ communications experience, including 20 years at a senior level in the NHS. Over the last ten years, Rory has led service change programmes in three London regions, working closely with residents, communities and partner organisations to develop best practice approaches to public involvement and participation. 

Rory is a skilled strategic adviser and communicator who helps organisations:

• design and implement effective community engagement strategies, including with seldom-heard groups
• develop clear, honest and culturally sensitive messaging
• build trust among residents, staff and communities that are traditionally underserved or disengaged
• evaluate communications through an outcomes-based lens (such as behaviour change, service access and health equity).

He is currently executive director of communications and involvement at NHS North West London and has previously led communications for Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, West London NHS Trust, Healthcare for London and Carers UK.