Incoming Officer for Health Improvement, Dr Helen Stewart said:
I am honoured to have been appointed as your Officer for Health Improvement at this critical time. I would like to say a huge thank you to Max Davie for everything he has achieved over the last few years, representing the College, and advocating for children and young people through a global pandemic. I have big shoes to fill.
My passion for health improvement comes from my experience working as an emergency paediatrician and seeing first-hand the impact income inequality and the social determinants have on the health of children and young people. As the cost-of-living crisis develops it is likely we will see further exacerbations of these existing health inequalities which is why I am excited to have this opportunity to work with the experienced and dedicated team at the college to continue to fight for children and young people’s right to as healthy a start in life as possible.
RCPCH President, Dr Camilla Kingdon, said:
I am delighted to have Helen Stewart join the team of officers at RCPCH as Officer for Health Improvement. It is an essential time for the role, and I look forward to a fresh perspective as we move into this challenging time. Helen has been a fantastic RCPCH advocate for South Yorkshire, where she works as a consultant emergency medicine paediatrician in Sheffield. With a keen interest in reducing health inequalities, Helen will be brilliant at driving the health improvement committee's functions and work streams, ensuring children and young people remain at the centre. She joins our team at the College at a time of unprecedented challenges to children’s health and wellbeing and I am really looking forward to working with her. Of course, I want to give our outgoing officer, Max Davie, the warmest thanks for his commitment to the college over the last few years. He has been invaluable to the college and leaves a very strong legacy.
Helen, we are so pleased to have your expertise and congratulations on your appointment!