Play your part in improving hospital services

Razia Shamim

A Rochdale woman is urging others to play their part in shaping hospital services as she prepares to step down as a non-executive director of Pennine Acute Trust.

Razia Shamim, who lives in Norden, is approaching the end of her term of office having served as a non-executive director for the Trust since 2002. The grandmother of five has worked as a non-executive director in the NHS for more than 15 years. She currently works part time for Age Concern as a project leader and is particularly interested in race equality, housing issues and community work.

Razia, who was awarded an MBE for services to housing and community relations in 1998, said: “I have found the role both interesting and enjoyable. There have been lots of changes but I am proud of the contribution I have made and I wish success to everyone at the Trust in the future.

“This is the perfect opportunity for a fresh face to step forward and make a difference for their community. I think it is particularly important that the black and ethnic minority community is represented on the Board as the Trust provides hospital services for such a diverse population.”

John Jesky, chairman of Pennine Acute Trust, said: “On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Razia for her six years of service. She has combined this role successfully with a number of other activities which have brought real benefits to the Rochdale community. Her dedication and commitment has made an enormous difference to the successful development of patient services.”

The Trust has two vacancies for non-executive directors with Anne Unwin also standing down at the end of her second term.
Non-executive directors can come from a variety of backgrounds and any walk of life. They are appointed initially for a fixed-term not exceeding four years.

Responsibilities include helping the Board to work in the public interest, helping to plan for future improvements to hospital services, ensuring that the management team meets its performance targets and making sure that Trust finances are managed properly.

The Trust runs Rochdale Infirmary and also provides services at Birch Hill Hospital.

Individuals interested in applying can obtain an application form and information pack from www.appointments.org.uk or www.strictlyboardroom.co.uk. Alternatively, they can call 0870 240 3802 quoting reference NW8502 for an information pack.