Public appointment: Member appointed to Shetland NHS Board

The Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Neil Gray MSP today announced the appointment of Karen Eunson as a Member of the Shetland NHS Board.

Member

Karen Eunson worked for almost 20 years at Shetland College UHI, and then for 10 years in the Shetland Islands Citizens Advice Bureau. She now works part-time in Shetland Library. Karen has volunteered in governance roles in a range of local organisations for over 25 years. She is currently Vice Chair of Hjaltland Housing Association and a member of the board of the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations. Karen is a skilled communicator, experienced in governance, with a strong understanding of local healthcare challenges. She is committed to the provision of a high-quality health service for the people of Shetland.

Appointment

This appointment will be for 4 years and will run from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2030.

This appointment is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner.

Remuneration

This appointment is part-time and attracts a remuneration of £16,224 for a time commitment of 52 days per year.

Other ministerial appointments

Karen Eunson does not hold any other public appointments.

Political activity 

All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process.  However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for appointees’ political activity within the last five years (if there is any to be declared) to be made public.   

Karen Eunson has had no political activity within the last five years. 

Background

NHS Shetland is responsible for meeting the health needs and improving the health of around 23,000 people living in the Shetland Islands.  NHS Shetland employs approximately 620 staff and provides a comprehensive range of acute, mental health, primary and community services.