Health crusader Pat retires after 30 years (From Warrington Guardian)

Health crusader Pat retires after 30 years

WITH dedication, care and sensitivity she acted as a watchdog for local NHS patients - for almost 30 years.

Pat Gerrard, chief officer of Halton Community Health Council (CHC), was honoured at a celebration retirement lunch in Runcorn Town Hall.

Chairman Karen Tonge, said: "Pat's loyalty to Halton CHC and her devotion to the cause of the patient is to be commended."

Pat joined Halton CHC in May, 1975, and helped countless patients seek help, advice and information on numerous items including new developments, difficulties, delays and complaints.

The office closed in September but Halton CHC continued to represent the voice of the community in Halton on the NHS until December 1, when it was abolished.

Its role is being taken over by the Commission for Patient and Public Involvement (PPI), which is developing a new system to ensure greater public involvement in decisions about health.