New chief nursing officer appointed for county’s NHS group

A new group chief nursing officer has been appointed to oversee community and hospital services across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin.

Martina Morris, who is currently site chief nursing officer and deputy group chief nursing officer at The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust and Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, will join the Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin Community and Hospitals NHS Group in June.

The group brings together Shropshire Community Health NHS Trust (ShropCom) and The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH) under a shared leadership model, formalised on April 1.

Ms Morris has nearly 30 years’ experience in nursing and leadership, including critical care, and is described as having a “proven track record of quality improvement”.

Jo Williams, group chief executive, said she was “delighted” to welcome her to the organisation.

“Martina’s experience, authenticity and compassion for patients and colleagues shines through,” she said.

“Her leadership and values will empower our colleagues to accelerate our quality, education and cultural improvement.”

Ms Morris said she felt “privileged” to be joining the group at a time of transformation.

“My family regularly use local services, and I have seen firsthand how hard working, caring and compassionate colleagues are, despite the significant pressures the NHS faces.

“Ensuring staff are supported, empowered and equipped to be the best version of themselves to deliver the best care for our patients and the communities we serve is very important to me. I am truly looking forward to being part of the team.

“Becoming a group is a fantastic opportunity to grow our community offer to deliver more care closer to people’s homes, help everyone have the best start in life and live healthier for longer.

“I am keen to ensure that as a group we listen to patients, families, communities and partners as we continue to further build an NHS that we can all be proud of.”

The group also paid tribute to Paula Gardner, who has served as SaTH’s Interim Chief Nursing Officer since December 2024. Ms Williams thanked her for bringing “a wealth of experience and determination” and said she would remain for a period to support the handover.