Grove Governor, Pam Essler, awarded British Empire Medal for outstanding contributions to the NHS

Pam Essler BEM

We are delighted to announce that Woodhouse Grove Governor, Pam Essler was recognised in the Queen’s New Year Honours List and has been awarded the British Empire Medal for outstanding contributions to the NHS.

After retiring from a career in education in 1996, Pam decided to concentrate on local community involvement, working with health services to improve people’s experiences and address inequalities. She served as a lay member on several local, regional and national NHS boards, as a tireless advocate for the voices of patients and carers in decision-making. From 2013 to 2019, Pam was the Deputy Chair for Airedale Wharfedale and Craven CCG. She continued to play an essential role in the merged Bradford District and Craven CCG as the Individual Funding Review panel chair. Pam is also active in the West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, as a member of the Public Patient Involvement Lay Member Group. Through the Improving Planned Care programme board, she is helping ensure that medical treatments are available equitably, no matter where people live across the region.

Pam is well-known and respected in the local voluntary sector, having volunteered with many charities. She has been a Woodhouse Grove Governor since 2009 and serves on the Education and Health & Safety Committees, as well as being Chair of the Audit Governance & Risk Committee.

Pam commented:

I was surprised and delighted by this recognition. I work alongside many dedicated people and organisations striving to improve health and wellbeing in our area, and I feel humbled to have my contribution recognised. My personal challenges of navigating the health system motivated me to get involved and find ways to improve services. I am proud to have helped bring the voices and experiences of local people into decision making.

James Lockwood, Headmaster stated:

I am delighted that Pam’s services to the NHS have been recognised and awarded. We are indeed extremely lucky and honoured to have Pam on our Board of Governors – and have benefitted greatly over the years from her wisdom, experience and dedication.

Congratulations Pam from everyone at The Grove.

I am an individual, yet I am part of something incredible.

I am Grovian