In May 2022, we welcomed Anna Cowan to our team as Policy and Campaigns Officer.
In this role, she will work on strengthening our relationships with decision makers and the media, in addition to devising public facing campaigns that will improve the lives of our services users.
We interviewed Anna to learn more about her, and about what she’ll bring to the role.
Why did you choose to apply to be Policy and Campaigns Officer at Waverley Care?
I have always been interested in sexual health and equal access to sexual health services. When I saw this role, I knew it was exactly what I wanted to do! I read about Waverley Care’s history and saw the range of amazing work that had been done – particularly during the HIV/AIDS crisis – and knew it was something I wanted to be a part of.
What previous experience will you bring to the role?
I have previously worked in policy and public affairs for other third sector organisations, prior to which I studied Sociology and Politics at the University of Edinburgh. In my free time, I work with Back Off Scotland, an organisation campaigning for the establishment of 150m buffer zones around abortion clinics to prevent the harassment of patients. I also co-founded Girls Against, a campaign fighting against sexual violence in live music and nightlife venues. My proudest moment from my work with Girls Against was speaking onstage with my feminist hero Kathleen Hanna!
What are you most excited to work on?
I can’t wait to work on a powerful campaign fighting against the stigma surrounding HIV and getting tested. I am particularly looking forward to creating a campaign alongside those with lived experience of HIV and other blood-borne viruses. Amplifying their voices is critical to ensuring the campaign is guided and shaped by real experiences.
What hobbies do you have outside of work?
I enjoy going to gigs, visiting the cinema, and attempting to win pub quizzes!
How can you be contacted?
Get in touch with me by email at Anna.Cowan@waverleycare.org