The PCWHF is delighted to announce the appointment of a new Chair. Following Dr Anne Connolly MBE’s decision to step away from the role she’s held since its inception, Dr Julie Oliver has been announced as her successor.
The PCWHF was founded by Dr Anne Connolly MBE and colleagues 15 years ago, and since then the Forum has grown to become a leading name in driving women’s health policy and supporting primary care clinicians around the world.
The original ambition was to support practitioners with a special interest in women’s health. But soon recognised the need to develop resources and guidance for all members of the multidisciplinary team whilst also lobbying for improved recognition of the need for quality healthcare for women.
The PCWHF now offers a range of resources, eLearning, webinars and events that help support clinicians to deliver quality care.
Dr Anne Connolly MBE said: “I have been so proud to be part of the team, and to know that PCWHF has become the respected organisation that it has. But as I hand over the role to Julie Oliver, I know that the work will flourish as the PCWHF continues to grow under her leadership. Julie was one of the founding members of the PCWHF and has been a valued member of the team – and an amazing personal support and mentor for me.
“I am not going to list the names of all the wonderful people who have supported me personally and the PCWHF over the last 15 years, in fear of missing anyone, but it has been such an impressive example of teamwork, with the different players sharing their expertise, time and passion. And I thank each and every one of you who has been and still are part of the team.
“Last, but definitely not least, a massive thank you on behalf of myself and the PCWHF Board to all of you who deliver quality care for your female patients.”
Dr Julie Oliver shared her pleasure at becoming the new PCWHF Chair: “I am delighted to be taking over the role of Chair of the PCWHF from Dr Anne Connolly MBE. She has been an inspiration to work with for the past 15 years. Anne has left a legacy in the work of primary care women’s health and her drive for better health care for all women will be one I will continue to work for.
“I look forward to working with our Members and stakeholders to support the great work we already do. To drive positivity and success into our achievements and to listen to those women who need us to provide the best, local and accessible services for all.
“These next three years are exciting, with Women’s Health Hubs at the centre of the DHSC women’s health strategy. Your enthusiasm and drive via our Facebook group, webinars and conferences will keep us focused here at the PCWHF to continue providing support, education and networking for the future.”
Anne will not be leaving the PCWHF, she remains as an Executive Board Member.
