A former MP and government minister has been appointed as new chair of the health trust that runs the Royal Lancaster Infirmary.
Andrew Stephenson CBE will take over as the new chair of University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust (UHMBT) from June.
Mr Stephenson was the Conservative Member of Parliament for Pendle in Lancashire from 2010 until 2024
After some health issues, he became a volunteer first responder with the North West Ambulance Service and served in that role for 11 years.
He is also a former Minister for the NHS and Secondary Care.
“It is truly an honour to be appointed as chair of UHMBT," said Mr Stephenson.
"I am committed to tackling the significant challenges of serving such a rural area, which includes multiple areas of deprivation and system-wide issues, such as discharge delays and tight finances.
“I believe my career to date has provided me with solid foundations to take on the role of chair, providing new leadership to both the board of directors and the council of governors.
“I will strive to ensure that the trust not only meets the challenges of today but also capitalises on emerging opportunities to further transform and enhance the quality of care we deliver. I will lead the board of directors and the council of governors to build on the progress UHMBT has made, delivering for patients, colleagues and the communities the trust proudly serves.”
Suzie Hayman, lead governor, UHMBT, said: “I was bowled over by the length and breadth of the research Andrew displayed in our conversations, into what UHMBT does and seeks to do.
"He really understands the people we look after and the complexity of the health offer we make. As a first responder, he went over and above in the training he requested and I know in one of his posts he went so far as to study for and gain a Master’s degree to get fully across his subject. He will bring enthusiasm and commitment to this role.”
Aaron Cummins, chief executive, UHMBT, said: “I am delighted that our council of governors has approved the appointment of Andrew as our new trust chair. He has a clear commitment to building effective relationships and supporting the strategic development of our trust - reinforcing our position as a high-performing provider of hospital and community care.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Tony Oakman, who has served as interim chair of UHMBT during the recruitment process. Tony's expertise and guidance have been instrumental in our work to continuously improve the quality of care we provide and we appreciate his support during this transition period.
“We look forward to working with Andrew as we take the next steps in our planned recovery and transformation journey - focusing on further improving care and services for our local communities.”
The trust runs three main hospitals, the Royal Lancaster Infirmary, Furness General in Barrow and Westmorland General in Kendal, as well as the Queen Victoria Hospital healthcare centre in Morecambe.
Read more: New chief medical officer appointed at Morecambe Bay hospitals trust - Beyond Radio
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