Public appointment: Non-executive Whistleblowing Champion Member appointed to Shetland NHS Board

The Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, Humza Yousaf MSP today announced the appointment of Mr Joseph Higgins as a Non-executive Whistleblowing Champion Member of Shetland NHS Board.

Member

Joseph Higgins graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1985 and spent 35 years in the financial services sector.  During this time he held a variety of senior operational, technical and research positions.  This included work within the outsourced environment with the associated contractual and commercial implications.  In his role as a carer for his daughter, Mr Higgins has first hand experience of the work conducted across primary and acute services.  He has particular interest in the work of CAMHS, and in services which support people with learning difficulties.  Recreationally, Mr Higgins enjoys keeping fit and is a passionate gardener.

Appointment

The appointment of Mr Higgins is for four years, from 8 December 2022 to 7 December 2026.

This appointment is regulated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner.

Remuneration

The appointment is part-time and attract a remuneration of £8,176 per annum for a time commitment of one day per week

Other ministerial appointments

Mr Higgins 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.   

Mr Higgins has had no political activity within the last five years. 

Background

NHS Shetland is responsible for the delivery of high quality person centred care and improving the health and wellbeing of the people of Shetland. In doing so, NHS Shetland requires to understand the health needs of the 22,500 people living in Shetland, and provide a comprehensive range of primary, community-based and acute hospital services tailored for the whole population.