Virginia has two decades of experience across local, regional, and national government. Virginia's expertise lies in the development and implementation of policies and programmes designed to reduce health inequalities, particularly focusing on supporting vulnerable children and young people, and people with alcohol and drug problems.

Virginia holds a PhD in Public Health and Health Economics Decision Science from the University of Sheffield, where her research centred on effective and cost-effective interventions for parents with a substance use disorder.

She lives with her husband, son and dog in Croydon. Virginia enjoys hiking and yoga, and is an enthusiastic (though sporadic) participant in her local Parkrun. She has hiked to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania and Kala Patthar, Nepal.