Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) play an important role in NHS organisations. They provide independent oversight, support and constructive challenge to executive decision-making, and help ensure organisations remain focused on delivering safe, high-quality care for patients. NEDs also contribute to good governance, financial oversight and accountability to local communities.
Helen brings a strong local connection to the role, having trained as a student diagnostic radiographer at Doncaster Royal Infirmary earlier in her career. She has also worked closely with Education and Research colleagues at the Trust over many years and supported the launch of Doncaster and Bassetlaw’s transition to Teaching Hospitals through her work with Sheffield Hallam University.
With a background spanning healthcare, higher education and governance, Helen began her career as a diagnostic radiographer in the NHS before moving into higher education. She spent more than 30 years at Sheffield Hallam University, where she held senior leadership roles including Deputy Dean and Dean of Academic Strategy. During this time, she led strategic change programmes, course portfolio development and complex organisational transformation.
Helen also brings significant experience in corporate governance, having served on university boards and as a long-standing Trustee of Sheffield City Trust, where she chaired the Charitable Purposes Committee. At a national level, she works as a Lead Partner Visitor for the Health and Care Professions Council and as an assessor for the College of Radiographers, supporting quality assurance and regulatory compliance. She holds a Master’s degree in Further and Higher Education and a postgraduate award in Health and Social Care Leadership.
Mark Bailey, Interim Chair of the Board at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, said: “I am pleased to welcome Helen to the Board. She brings a breadth of experience across a range of sectors that will be valuable as we work together on the things that matter most to patients and the people who care for them. I look forward to her contribution and the positive impact she will have.”
Speaking about her appointment, Helen said: “I am delighted to be joining Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals as a Non-Executive Director. Having trained at Doncaster Royal Infirmary and worked closely with the Trust over many years, this feels like a meaningful opportunity to give something back. I am looking forward to supporting the Board and contributing to the continued delivery of safe, high-quality care for patients and local communities.”
Helen took up her role on 1 January 2026.
Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals provides care for more than half a million people each year across South Yorkshire and North Nottinghamshire. The organisation operates across three main hospital sites and employs more than 7,300 colleagues.