Announcing our new Chair at Berkshire Healthcare

We are pleased to announce that Frances West has been appointed as the new Chair of Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

Frances joins us from Dorset Healthcare University NHS Foundation Trust, which she joined in 2022. Her Non-Executive Director experience includes roles such as Senior Independent Director and Deputy Chair at Dorset Healthcare, as well as positions with Dorchester County Hospital and Westward Housing Group.

Before moving into board roles, Frances spent more than 20 years in the Army, serving as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Royal Military Police. She later held senior positions in local government at Purbeck District Council, leading legal, democratic, public health and housing services.

She has also worked in the charity sector with Help for Heroes, Age UK and EDP Drug and Alcohol Services, alongside consultancy, with work focused on organisational development, governance and service improvement.

Frances said: “I will really enjoy the challenge and breadth the Chair’s role offers. Everything about Berkshire Healthcare Foundation Trust presents as an organisation striving for excellence.  Berkshire Healthcare’s commitment to delivering high-quality, compassionate care aligns strongly with my own values.

“I am really looking forward to appreciating its focus on addressing health inequalities  and how it ensures services are accessible and responsive to diverse community needs. I want to be part of building partnerships, working collaboratively with system partners across health, social care, and the voluntary sector to deliver joined-up support.”

We would like to thank both Martin Earwicker, who led the Trust as Chair from 2016 to 2025, and Mark Day, who has provided leadership and support as Interim Chair since 1 August 2025. 

Frances was appointed following a competitive process and will take up her new role in February 2026.

We look forward to the experience and leadership she will bring to Berkshire Healthcare.