Communication Leads network
24 April 2025
11:00
Online
Overview
Connect with your peers from across the country
With recent develops and an ever-evolving landscape within the NHS, our latest network meeting is your opportunity to reflect with other communications leaders across the country on your key challenges and share insight and learning.
Thursday 24 Apr
10:45Waiting room open
11:00Welcome
Introduction and chair's welcome
Saffron Cordery
11:05Session 1
Strategic policy update
A presentation from NHS Providers director of communications and head of media on strategic policy issues and developments, sharing analysis on what these may mean for the provider sector and considerations for comms leaders.
Following the presentation, you'll have opportunity to engage in a Q&A.
Orla Fee
Susan Bahl
11:50Comfort break
12:00Breakouts
Leading communication in challenging times
During this period of change and uncertainty for colleagues across the NHS, the role of communications is essential.
Communications professional have an extremely important role to play, but one that is sometimes misunderstood and undervalued, especially when expenditure is under scrutiny.
This session will allow you to discuss in groups the ways in which you feel NHS communicators can make the biggest contribution at this moment.
12:50Session 2
Taskforce for Diversity in NHS Communications
Hear an update on the Taskforce for Diversity in NHS Communications, which aims to address racial disparities within the profession.
This session will share key insights from the taskforce's literature review and primary research, which over 300 ethnic minority specialists participated in, as well as outputs from recent engagement sessions.
The discussion will cover access to opportunities, workplace experiences, and representation in leadership roles, as well as potential solutions and next steps to encourage a more inclusive and equitable environment for all communications professionals in the NHS.
Sally Mussellwhite
13:25Closing comments
Why this matters
Attendance is free, however you will need to book in advance to receive joining instructions to access the network.
If you have any questions, or would like to be added to the mailing list to hear about future events and NHS Providers resources, please contact the Networks team.
Always a helpful event. I leave with knowing I'm not alone in the issues I'm struggling with, helpful ideas for things to try and a renewed sense of optimism.
Network chair
Julian Hartley
Chief Executive
NHS Providers
hello hello i am chief exec
Orla Fee
Director of Communications
NHS Providers
Susan Bahl
Head of Media
NHS Providers
David Williams
Head of Policy and Strategy
NHS Providers
Sally Mussellwhite
Head of Communications and Marketing
NHS Providers
Saffron Cordery
Interim Chief Executive
NHS Providers
Professor Sir Terence Stephenson
Chair
NHS Providers
Speakers
Orla Fee
Director of Communications
NHS Providers
Susan Bahl
Head of Media
NHS Providers
David Williams
Head of Policy and Strategy
NHS Providers
Sally Mussellwhite
Head of Communications and Marketing
NHS Providers
Saffron Cordery
Interim Chief Executive
NHS Providers
Professor Sir Terence Stephenson
Chair
NHS Providers
Network chair
Julian Hartley
Chief Executive
NHS Providers
How to book
As the NHS is rapidly evolving do do do, it's important to step back from the day-to-day to take the opportunity to reflect on the key challenges facing your role, team and trust.
Operating under Chatham House Rule, this member-only network will provide you an opportunity to:
- Share ideas and exchange learning.
- hear presentations from communications leaders experts on the latest innovative work in the sector.
- Engage in interactive sessions to ask questions and share your thoughts.
- Have open and honest discussions with peers in breakout sessions.
Who should attend
This network is designed for anyone with strategic oversight for the communications agenda of their trusts. This includes:
- Directors of communications, public affairs engagement of marketing and senior communications managers.
- Interim/acting/assistant/deputy directors and heads of are also welcome to attend.