Former 'children's czar' appointed to Guy's and St Thomas' Board

Dr Sheila Shribman CBE, the Department of Health’s National Clinical Director for Children, Young People and Maternity for seven years until March this year, has been appointed as a Non-Executive Director of Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust.

Her first official engagement is attending today’s launch of the new identity for Evelina London Children’s Hospital, which is part of Guy’s and St Thomas’.

Dr Shribman worked as a Consultant Paediatrician for more than 25 years. She was the Medical Director of Northampton General Hospital for 11 years. She led the successful integration of children’s services in hospital, community and mental health settings, working closely with the local authority.

Her expertise in maternity, children and young people’s services will prove invaluable to Guy’s and St Thomas’ which includes the Evelina London Children’s Hospital, which cares for children from South London, South East England and beyond, and provides community services for children living in Lambeth and Southwark.

Sir Hugh Taylor, Chairman of the Trust: said: “I am delighted to welcome Sheila to the Board of Directors which will be strengthened by her medical expertise. We now have four clinicians on the Board, which will help us remain focused on patient care as our top priority.”

“Sheila’s broad clinical and public health experience and extensive background in children’s health will be invaluable to the work of the Trust, particularly as we seek to raise the profile of Evelina London Children’s Hospital.”

Dr Shribman: “I’m so pleased to be joining the Board. I’m an NHS person through and through, so I want to keep contributing where I can. I can’t think of a better way to do that then by joining a forward-looking organisation that’s recognised as an outstanding institution. I can’t wait to get started.”

Dr Shribman’s appointment was recommended by the Trust’s Nominations Committee and agreed by the Council of Governors – which includes elected representatives of patients, members of the public and staff. Her appointment will run for four years with effect from June 2013.