Blue rose petal with dew for the CPHW
The Centre for the Psychology of Health and Wellbeing (CPHW) at the University of Plymouth brings together researchers in clinical, cognitive, social, and environmental psychology to understand and improve health in real-world contexts.
The CPHW's interdisciplinary research addresses health and wellbeing across the lifespan, and integrates theoretical models and methods from neuroscience, cognition and applied social and health psychology. 
Our researchers undertake both problem-focused and theory-driven research. In doing so, the Centre generates knowledge and innovative, evidence-based solutions that improve lives, strengthen communities, and inform policy and practice locally, nationally, and globally.

Our research at the CPHW is driven by our conviction that to improve the health and wellbeing of society, we need to harness the whole of the research continuum, from pure fundamental research to applied research that contributes to meaningful changes in both policy and practice.

Helen LloydProfessor Helen Lloyd
Co-Director of CPHW and Professor of Psychology

The CPHW is built on our belief that health and wellbeing are shaped by the dynamic relationships across and within communities, environments, services and systems. That’s why our researchers not only apply rigorous psychological science to understand these relationships, but work closely with the people receiving and administering healthcare to tailor it to their needs.

Mark TarrantProfessor Mark Tarrant
Co-Director of CPHW and Professor of Psychology

Grounded in robust methodologies, participatory approaches, and theoretical foundations of psychological science, we are committed to socially just, interdisciplinary research that challenges inequalities, amplifies diverse voices, and co-produces knowledge with the communities we serve. 
The CPHW creates the necessary conditions to support capacity building and provide a context for international multidisciplinary collaborations with experts across the health and social sciences.
 
 
 
 
 

Core values

Excellence

We uphold the highest standards of methodological rigour, theoretical depth, and interdisciplinary innovation.

Social justice and equity

We challenge health inequalities and structural barriers to wellbeing through fair, accessible, and person-centred approaches.

Inclusion

We amplify diverse voices, respect lived experience, and co-produce research and interventions with those we serve.

Impact

We translate robust psychological and behavioural science into real-world change that improves lives, informs practice, and shapes policy.

Research team

 

In the news

Nicola Weston with her parents at graduation in 2001
New award marks 50 years of Psychology at the University of Plymouth

The prize fondly remembers Dr Nicola Weston

21 July 2026
 
 
 
 
 

Related courses