University of Greater Manchester appoints Professor Faye Ruddock DL

The University of Greater Manchester has appointed Faye Ruddock, Director of the Institute of Health Equity and Social Justice, as Professor and Chair of Health Equity.

Professor Ruddock, who is also the Chair of the Caribbean & African Health Network (CAHN), brings a wealth of experience and dedication to addressing health inequalities affecting people of Black Caribbean and African heritage.

Professor Ruddock founded CAHN in 2017, following findings of her doctorate research which provided the evidence base for its establishment as a community interest company (CIC).

Her research, in December 2016, highlighted significant health disparities facing Black people with a focus in the Greater Manchester area.

CAHN is now the leading Black health organisation, pioneering calls for reducing health inequalities and provides secretariat for the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Black Health.

In her book published in 2022, 'Decolonising Public Health through Praxis: The Impact on Black Health in the UK', co-authored with Ornette D Clennon, Professor Ruddock highlighted numerous structural inequalities that contribute to poor health outcomes disproportionately affecting Black people in Britain.

Additionally, Professor Ruddock has written several publications on health inequalities and led and chaired numerous boards at national, regional, and local levels, facilitating significant health improvements.

Examples include chairing the North West NHS Regional Anti-Racism in Nursing and Midwifery Forum and co-chair for the Diabetes UK commission on health inequalities.

In confirming Professor Ruddock’s appointment, Professor George E Holmes DL, President and Vice Chancellor of the University, said: “This academic achievement is appropriate recognition for your remarkable work, and the University is proud to be associated with you and this activity.

"I trust that in your new Chair, you will contribute further to your field with distinction and ensure that, at regional, national, and international levels, significant improvements are made in the understanding and improvement of health inequalities.

"I would like to take the opportunity to congratulate you on this appointment.”

Professor Ruddock said: "I'm really honoured to accept the role of Professor and Chair of Health Equity at the University of Greater Manchester.

"This is an amazing opportunity and a privilege, and I am excited to take it on as the ongoing challenge to reduce health inequalities is far from over.

"I am looking forward to enhancing the University's academic excellence and creating an environment where research, innovation, and scholarship can thrive, especially in an area I am so passionate about.

"I want to thank the President and Vice Chancellor, academic committee, and the executive board for their trust and support."

Professor Ruddock's appointment will elevate the University's profile by expanding its networks and increasing its published works, demonstrating its commitment to promoting and integrating health equity across all its offerings.

It will have a positive impact on the community by fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment for all who are underrepresented beyond the borders of Greater Manchester.