The chairman of Wigan's hospital trust has been granted the Freedom of the City of London
One of the UK’s leading experts in patient care – who is the chairman of Wigan’s hospital trust – has received the Freedom of the City of London in recognition of her contribution to healthcare and medical education.
Dame Robina Shah is a highly experienced consultant and chartered psychologist, who has spent more than 30 years working across healthcare, medical education, patient safety, public service, social justice and inclusion.
She is professor of psychosocial medicine and medical education at the University of Manchester Medical School and director of the Doubleday Centre for Patient Experience.
She became chairman of Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in December.
Dame Robina’s contribution to patient care was recognised through her appointment as a dame in 2023, following her earlier MBE for services to academic research in learning disabilities.
Through her roles in a wide range of sports organisations, including the FA Council, FA Women’s Football Board, Manchester County FA, and Oldham Athletic Football Club, she has also made a significant contribution to football governance, player welfare, disability football, women’s football and widening opportunity through sport.
Dame Robina said she was “deeply honoured and humbled” to receive the Freedom of the City of London.
She said: “This recognition of my contribution to the NHS, sport, particularly football, and governance is especially meaningful, because these areas have shaped much of my life’s work and public service. I wish to thank the many colleagues, patients, volunteers, community partners and organisations that I have had the privilege of working alongside over the years. Much of what I have been able to contribute has only been possible through collective effort, shared purpose and the generosity, trust and support of others.
“At this time, I also think warmly of my parents, whose values, kindness and humanity shaped the lens through which I have tried to serve others. They taught me to notice people, especially those who may otherwise go unseen, and nurtured in me a curiosity about people’s stories, lives and experiences, grounded in compassion, dignity and respect.
“I also want to acknowledge my family – Tariq, Zainab, Raabiyah and Sulaymaan – whose love, support and patience have been central to all my achievements.”