A public statue to honour the remarkable achievements of Professor Dame Robina Shah, a Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust (NCA) Non-Executive Director has been unveiled.
The ceremony to reveal the statue took place at Manchester Central Library with the attendance of the Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham.
Councillor David Wilson, The Mayor of Stockport said: “Professor Dame Robina Shah Deputy Lieutenant has over a great number of years been associated with a long record of outstanding public service. Her recognition on being made a Dame in the King Charles’ New Year’s Honours List is richly deserved.”
Members of the public were asked to nominate women they found inspirational and from the hundreds of suggestions received, Professor Dame Shah was selected as one of 25 women to have a statue created to acknowledge her contribution. In particular this was for her leading work in patient care and the impact that this has had on the community.
Professor Dame Shah commented: “I feel very humbled to be recognised in this way and I would like to convey my sincere thanks to all those who have supported my life’s journey. Support from my family, friends, and colleagues has been incredible, however, the contribution of patients, carers, and service users over decades has been exceptional. Their willingness to share their lived experience has shaped, influenced, and continues to transform how we deliver health and care services for all our people.
“It has been a team effort and this accolade is for all of us.”
The statue will become part of the permanent collection at Manchester Town Hall once the exhibition at the library is complete.
Professor Eileen Fairhurst MBE, Chairman of the NCA added: “We are incredibly proud that one of our non-executive directors is being honoured for their achievements, and with a statue, nonetheless. It is wonderful to know that Professor Shah’s decades of commitment and hard work in providing the best patient care will have a long-lasting legacy.
“She is an inspiration to many and we are delighted that she has been recognised as a role model to women and girls in this very special and unique way.”