The 2022 All Party Parliamentary Report on Rural Health and Care identified that the fifth of England’s population that live in rural areas have experienced poorer access to health and social care for too long. Policy development, energy and commitment are needed if the complex challenges are to be successfully overcome.

The National Centre an effective though small Community Interest Company is seeking a part time Chair to lead the organisation in the next stage of its development. Over the last 7 years since its inception it has helped shape the national policy agenda for rural and coastal health and care. It has also provided valuable practical help to assist practitioners in the delivery of rural health services. Its work has included the development of a rural proofing toolkit and it is a key advocate for rural communities, often in partnership with others. Its recent response to the Major Conditions Survey is available here and you can see the case studies we recently presented as part of a team with the Rural Coalition here.

In the next phase of its development the National Centre will continue to influence policy formation as well as support the improvement of health and care delivery in rural and coastal settings. One of its challenges will be to build on its success and become financially sustainable.

The Chair will lead a small team of voluntary Directors alongside commissioned support from the Rose Regeneration and other experts in rural development. The Directors are experienced and passionate, and together with members from a wide spectrum they are able to provide unique insight and support to national and local rural health improvement. The new Chair will need to demonstrate:

• A good understanding of national rural and coastal health policy and delivery
• The ability to work at national level to influence and shape policy direction
• A wide national, and ideally international, senior leadership network in rural health and care
• A strong track record of working in partnership
• Accomplished in dealing with national media and external events
• Successful leadership of a small organisation
• An ability to provide ‘hands-on’ support as well as organisational leadership

The Chair will be expected to work flexibly and whilst much will be possible remotely, some meetings will be expected in person, for example face to face meetings with senior policy makers or speaking a national events. At present the National Centre Board meets remotely on a quarterly basis with an annual strategy session in person. Office space can be arranged at Lincoln Medical School.

A reasonable fee will be paid which reflects the size of the organisation and significance of our work.

Expressions of interest are invited by 5pm Friday 8 September to Mr Jan Sobieraj, Chair, via email Jansob@icloud.com.  Applications should include a CV and supporting letter covering what you can bring to the role and where you see the National Centre over the next 5 years.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview virtually on Monday 25 September.