After more than two decades serving patients and communities in Gateshead, and 35 years working in emergency medicine across the North East, Neil Halford will retire from the NHS on 20 March.
Neil has been a consultant in the emergency department at the QE Hospital for 23 years and, more recently, has served as Medical Director for Strategic Relations. Throughout his time at Gateshead Health, he has cared for local people at some of the most difficult moments in their lives and helped shape services to better meet the needs of our community.
In his executive director role, Neil has worked closely with partners across health, social care and the voluntary sector to strengthen collaboration and improve support for local residents. That work will continue to make a difference as services are developed to provide more care closer to home.
Dr Carmen Howey, Medical Director at Gateshead Health, said:
“Neil has made an enormous contribution to Gateshead over many years. As a consultant in the emergency department, he has supported patients and families with skill and compassion, and helped generations of colleagues to grow and develop in their careers.
“He has also played an important role in building strong partnerships across our local health and care system, always focused on improving services for the people of Gateshead. On behalf of the Trust, I would like to thank him for his dedication and wish him a long and happy retirement.”
Reflecting on his career, Neil Halford said:
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my vocation and the time I’ve spent caring for patients and supporting colleagues. It has been a privilege to work alongside so many talented and committed people, and to play a part in the care of our local community over many years.”
Neil first came to the QE Hospital as a medical student more than 40 years ago. He returned as a consultant in 2003 and has witnessed significant change in healthcare over that time.
As he looks ahead to retirement, he leaves a simple message for others:
“Make the most of every decision you make. If you make a wrong choice, that’s okay. Be brave, reverse it and then do the right thing. Don’t regret the things you didn’t do and take the opportunities that you find.”
Everyone at Gateshead Health would like to thank Neil for his longstanding commitment to patients, colleagues and the wider community, and wish him and his family all the very best for the future.