I hope this finds you well and you are enjoying the fantastic spell of hot weather.

Chair-in-common appointed

As we continue to develop our closer collaboration with Barts Health, we have today announced the appointment of the Right Honourable Jacqui Smith as the new Chair in common for both of our trusts. 

Jacqui is joining us at an important and exciting time in the development of our two organisations as, together, we strive to recover from Covid-19, tackle our waiting lists, improve our urgent and emergency care and respond to the stark health inequalities in north-east London that were exacerbated by the global pandemic.

Jacqui will take up her new position on 1 October 2021 and I wish her all the best in her new role.

Both trusts will remain separate bodies with their own boards and BHRUT will be led, from next month, by our incoming substantive chief executive Matthew Trainer.

Face masks in our hospitals

While ‘freedom day’ was enjoyed by some across the country yesterday, we must remember that Covid-19 has not disappeared. With cases rising across our three boroughs, the safety of our staff and patients remains our top priority.

This means face masks must still be worn by patients, visitors and staff in our hospitals.

To help protect our vulnerable patients and staff, it is vital that we continue to follow all necessary infection prevention and control regulations, including wearing masks and social distancing.

We know that some of our staff and patients may feel anxious about the relaxation of rules and we want to reassure them that we are doing everything we can to keep our hospitals safe.

The vaccination programme continues across north east London and it has been an incredible effort so far by NHS and local authority partners to help protect our communities. However, we know that some people have still not had their jab. Anyone aged 18 or over can now receive the vaccine. If you’ve not had yours yet, book your appointment online.

First glimpse of West Ham’s new kit

West Ham United launched their brand new home kit last Thursday (15 July) and some of our staff were lucky enough to be involved.

My colleagues continue to be incredible during the pandemic and this was a fantastic opportunity for some of them to relax and enjoy being part of an exciting occasion in the football calendar.

I must thank West Ham United for such a fantastic opportunity. We have a very positive relationship with the club, which continues to grow. They are a huge part of our community and have supported us throughout the pandemic. We look forward to continue working together.

I hope you have a good week.

Best wishes,

Tony Chambers
Chief Executive