Zoe Matthews trained as a psychiatric nurse, and has always taken a keen interest in the interplay of culture, politics and health. This led to degrees in Anthropology and Sociology and an MA in Health promotion (Europe).

Zoe has worked with Gypsies and Travellers since 1995, initially researching how their social exclusion can impact upon health outcomes. Zoe’s interest is in working with Gypsies and Travellers at the grass roots in order to get their voices heard and the necessary policy changes which will improve the health of the community.

Zoe has written for the Equality and Human Rights Commission, as well as the Race Equality Foundation. Zoe has worked closely with the Department of Health on health policy for Gypsies and Travellers and with the Cabinet Office and Social Exclusion task force on the Inclusion Health agenda.

Zoe is also a trustee for National Voices which is a coalition of national health and social care organisations that ensures a strong voice for all those who come into contact with the NHS and care services, and for the voluntary organisations that work for them.