Introducing our new Chair, Niall Baker!

Niall, Partner at Irwin Mitchell and Chair of IM Asset Management, takes over from David Whitney, who stood down earlier this year after heading up our Board for nine hugely successful years.

With vast experience, having spent time as a Trustee at Weston Park Cancer Charity already, Niall has hit the ground running in his new role.

He has already been heavily involved in our work – attending several of our 2022 events and becoming a regular visitor at Weston Park Cancer Support on Northumberland Road and our Charity Hub on Whitham Road.

As Chair, he joins a team of volunteer trustees who govern our work and direct how Weston Park Cancer Charity is managed and run.

We have recently committed to delivering an ambitious new strategy, which has been approved by the Board of Trustees.

Collectively, we aim to be there, at every step, for the one in two people who will be diagnosed with cancer in the South Yorkshire, North Nottinghamshire and North Derbyshire regions.

By providing support when it’s needed most, enhancing treatment experiences and enabling vital research into better treatment and care, we work to make life better for anyone in our region who is going through cancer.

On his appointment as Chair, Niall said:

“As one of only four specialist cancer hospitals in the UK, we’re extremely privileged to have Weston Park Cancer Centre on our doorstep in Sheffield. Nearly every person across the region has witnessed first-hand through relatives and friends, the phenomenal treatment the hospital provides.

“One in two people will face a cancer diagnosis in their lifetimes, and as more people are diagnosed, we need to ensure people in our region have access to the very best cancer care and treatment.

“With this in mind, I am honoured to be appointed as the new Chair, especially at a time when the charity is committed to deliver an ambitious strategy.”

Our Chief Executive Officer, Emma Clarke, said:

“Niall is the ideal person to champion the work of Weston Park Cancer Charity.

“He knows first-hand how important this institution is for the people of our region and brings with him a wealth of experience to grow our work; address health inequalities, raise awareness and invest in cancer care, support and research.

“We strive to be there for more people from the moment they are diagnosed. But today, as all of us will be affected by a diagnosis at some point in our lives, we know we need to do more.

“The stewardship of Niall and our wonderful Board of Trustees will also be essential in the coming months and years, as we plan to expand and take our cancer support services out into communities across Sheffield and the wider region, beyond our current service provision at Weston Park.”