Dr. Niruban Ratnarajah, a GP with many years of experience of health care, has been appointed the new Chair at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust following a rigorous assessment process.

A practising GP and partner at Stonehill Medical Centre, Niruban was also Clinical Lead and Chair in Bolton Clinical Commissioning Group, now part of the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board.

His insight, experience and knowledge of the needs of the Bolton communities and his ongoing work to drive the integration of health and care, will ensure that the Trust continues to focus on the reduction in health inequalities through preventing people in Bolton becoming unwell and improving their wellbeing.

Fiona Noden, Chief Executive of Bolton NHS Foundation Trust and Place Based Lead for Bolton said:

I’m delighted that we have appointed such an amazing candidate for Bolton, someone who is committed to doing the right thing for the people of Bolton.

“It was clear from the appointment process that Niruban shares the same values and vision we have at the Trust, and I am so excited to work alongside him to do the best for Bolton.

“Having a practicing GP supporting and guiding us, will undoubtedly help us deliver even better healthcare for our people.

“I know he will continue to build on the legacy of our previous Chairs, and help us progress on our integration journey in the most meaningful way.

Dr. Ratnarajah said:

I’m delighted to be taking up this position here in Bolton. I’ve worked for the people of Bolton for over ten years now, both in practice and in leadership positions, because I care about the health of the people here.

“My experience and skills of caring for people in general practice will help me provide a different insight into how the Trust provides its hospital and community services, and I want to use my experience to help us all achieve the best for Bolton.

“I’m passionate about everyone in Bolton, irrespective or where they live or what their background is, having access to the best possible care we can provide – in the right place and at the right time for their needs.

“I know we can do this together, and I’m looking forward to seeing what we can achieve.

Originally from Sri Lanka, Niruban trained as a general practitioner in Bolton and has worked in the town for more than ten years.

He will commence in post as Chair of the Foundation Trust as soon as possible.