Joanne Clarkson

Biography

Jo Cookson is a Senior Lecturer in Neonatal Nursing at Keele University. She is currently undertaking a Professional Doctorate in Midwifery and holds a Master's degree in Medical Ethics and Law.

Jo is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and is recognised for her commitment to excellence in healthcare education, curriculum innovation, and the development of the neonatal workforce. Her work focuses on advancing evidence-based practice, enhancing student learning experiences, and supporting the professional development of nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals.

Jo is particularly recognised for her leadership in perinatal bereavement education. Working collaboratively with a Consultant Neonatologist, she co-led the development of a nationally accessible e-learning resource on perinatal post-mortem consent, which has been hosted on the NHS e-Learning for Healthcare (e-LfH) platform since 2020. This initiative was developed in response to identified gaps in professional training and continues to support healthcare professionals across England and Wales.

Jo's professional interests include neonatal and perinatal ethics, bereavement care, simulation-based education, student wellbeing, workforce development, and improving the quality and safety of neonatal and maternity services. Her work is driven by a commitment to improving outcomes for babies and families through education, research, and compassionate, evidence-informed practice.