Ann Barnes, Chief Executive and Judith Morris, Director of Nursing and Midwifery at Stockport NHS Foundation Trust will be retiring at the end of the year after over four decades each of service to the NHS.

Ann Barnes has dedicated almost 40 years’ service to the public sector, with 38 of those years in the NHS.  She joined Stockport NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Stepping Hill Hospital and community health services, 17 years ago as Director of Operations, before becoming Chief Executive in 2013.

Ann has overseen the growth and strengthening of specialist hospital services, such as stroke, orthopaedics and general surgery, as well as an expansion into providing services in the community.  Her personal style, as well as her extensive knowledge and experience, has brought great respect and praise during her years in office.  

Judith has been a nurse for 40 years and has worked in Stockport since 1987, starting as a nurse tutor in the school of nursing followed by a succession of nursing management roles.  As Director of Nursing and Midwifery from 2008, she has transformed nursing services, and has been a passionate advocate for safe and compassionate patient care, against a backdrop of huge national changes and challenges.

Chairman Gillian Easson said, ‘We are truly fortunate to have benefitted from the exceptional contribution of Ann and Judith.  They have both been a shining example of what can be achieved through a powerful combination of skill and wisdom, which is always delivered with great professionalism, grace, warmth and integrity.

“They have always been guided by what is right for patients and the belief that we should consistently be open and transparent to those we serve. It has been an immense pleasure to work with Ann and Judith and I wish them both a happy retirement from next year. In these changing times, they have endowed to us a fine, enduring legacy.”