Meet Evelina London's first non-executive advisors

The exterior of Evelina London Children's Hospital

Evelina London is delighted to announce that three non-executive advisors have been appointed to the Evelina London Board, including an advisor representing parents and carers.

As a Strategic Business Unit, Evelina London has an increased level of strategic and operational autonomy within Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust. This enables a focus on children’s services, putting children and their families at the heart of decision making.

The Evelina London Board oversees the day to day running and strategic development of Evelina London on behalf of the Trust Board and is accountable for progress and achievements. The Board has bolstered its membership with three non executive advisors to bring external oversight with the specialist knowledge and expertise to help inform decision making.

Francine Bates, David Easton and Jo Adamou joined the Board in March 2018. Sheila Shribman, Chair of the Evelina London Board, non-executive director and deputy chair of the Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust Board of Directors, said:

“After a successful first year as a Strategic Business Unit, we’re delighted to have built on this foundation with the recruitment of non executive advisors. An essential element of the Board’s role is to ensure that the voice of children, young people, and their families are central to the operation and development of the Trust’s services. The varied backgrounds and experiences of our advisors provide a brilliant balance of expertise.

“Francine Bates has extensive experience in the voluntary sector and child health, specifically local services and family engagement. David Easton brings business and commercial expertise, including international children’s health services. Jo Adamou’s role as a parent and carer non executive advisor is the first of its kind for the Trust. As a parent with direct experience of health services for her daughter, Cissy, who has been treated for a heart condition since birth, Jo’s experience has given her a unique insight into the challenges faced by parents of children with multiple health conditions. This makes Jo an ideal advisor to the board.

“Even at this early stage the input from all three advisors has been immensely useful.”

Non-executive advisor, Francine Bates, said:

“Appointment of non-executive advisors shows a real commitment to gaining an external point of view and reflects a culture of being open to new ideas and external challenge.

“Over the last few months, I have enjoyed immersing myself in Evelina London to really understand their services. I have been impressed by the energy and commitment of staff.

“I am passionate about children’s health and improving outcomes and particularly keen to lend my knowledge and experience to support community services.

“At a time of great pressure for the NHS, it’s brilliant to be involved with a Trust that wants the best for their patients. I’m excited about what we can each contribute to help to shape the strategy and future growth of Evelina London.”

Find out more about the Evelina London Board including a full list of membership and non-executive advisor biographies.