One of the UK’s leading experts in patient care has received the Freedom of the City of London at Guildhall today, in recognition of her outstanding contribution to, and achievements in, healthcare and medical education.
A highly experienced consultant and chartered psychologist, Dame Robina Shah DBE has spent over 30 years working across healthcare, medical education, patient safety, public service, social justice, and inclusion.
She is currently Professor of Psychosocial Medicine and Medical Education at the University of Manchester Medical School and Director of the Doubleday Centre for Patient Experience.
Dame Robina’s contribution to patient care was recognised through her appointment as Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, following her earlier MBE for services to academic research in learning disabilities.
Through her roles in a wide range of sports organisations, including the FA Council, FA Women’s Football Board, Manchester County FA, and Oldham Athletic Football Club, Dame Robina has also made a significant contribution to football governance, player welfare, disability football, women’s football, and widening opportunity through sport.
Dame Robina has been nominated for the Freedom by the City of London Corporation’s Deputy Policy Chair, James Thomson, and City Corporation Lead Member for Sport, Edward Lord.
Speaking after her Freedom ceremony, Dame Robina Shah said: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive the Freedom of the City of London. This unexpected recognition has touched me greatly.
“I thank my nominators, James Thomson and Edward Lord, and accept the Freedom with humility and appreciation, mindful of the many people who have guided, supported, and encouraged me throughout my life.
“The City of London has long held a special significance for me. Although Manchester is my home and the place where I was born, I have had the privilege, through my civic and public roles, of attending many events in the City and seeing first-hand its unique history, traditions and contribution to public life.
“This recognition of my contribution to the NHS, sport, particularly football, and governance is especially meaningful, because these areas have shaped much of my life’s work and public service. I wish to thank the many colleagues, patients, volunteers, community partners and organisations that I have had the privilege of working alongside over the years. Much of what I have been able to contribute has only been possible through collective effort, shared purpose and the generosity, trust and support of others.
“At this time, I also think warmly of my parents, whose values, kindness and humanity shaped the lens through which I have tried to serve others. They taught me to notice people, especially those who may otherwise go unseen, and nurtured in me a curiosity about people’s stories, lives and experiences, grounded in compassion, dignity and respect.
“I also want to acknowledge my family, Tariq, Zainab, Raabiyah and Sulaymaan, whose love, support and patience have been central to all my achievements.”
City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, said: “Dame Robina Shah’s Freedom of the City of London recognises her distinguished career and expertise in a wide range of fields, including healthcare, medical education, patient care, inclusion, and football governance.
“A very deserving recipient of the Freedom, I hope that Dame Robina and her guests will have very fond memories of her ceremony at Guildhall for many years to come.”
“The University of Manchester is a public research university in Manchester, England. The main campus is south of Manchester City Centre on Oxford Road.”
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