Chief Nurse for Adult Social Care appointed Honorary Professor at University of Salford

Deborah was appointed as the first Chief Nurse for Adult Social Care in 2021. She has a wealth of experience from senior posts in practice, research and policy, in both social care services and the NHS.

She holds two Visiting Chairs in Nursing at Manchester Metropolitan and Buckinghamshire New Universities. Deborah has written numerous papers for publications and presented at national and international meetings.

She was awarded a CBE in the 2023 Honours list and an OBE in 2017. She is a Fellow of the Queen's Nursing Institute (QNI) and Royal College of Nursing (RCN).

The University of Salford also hosts the UK's first ever Chair in Adult Social Care Nursing in the UK, a role created in partnership with the Royal College of Nursing Foundation. The RCN Foundation chose University of Salford, which is the largest specialist provider of nursing and midwifery education in the region, to host the role following a competitive process.

Professor Margaret Rowe, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean of School of Health and Society said: “It's fantastic to welcome the first Chief Nursing Officer for social care, Professor Deborah Sturdy, to this honorary appointment.

"Alongside the RCN Foundation, the University of Salford is proud to be leading the way in this area. Working in close partnership with Professor Claire Pryor, Chair in Adult Social Care Nursing, Deborah will help drive changes to adult social care across the UK in terms of education, professional practice and research.

"Deborah is a passionate advocate for the care sector and workforce, and we look forward to the fresh perspectives she will no doubt bring as we continue to develop and educate the next generation of nurses in adult social care.”

On her appointment, Deborah said: “I am delighted to be joining the nursing team at Salford University as a Visiting Professor, particularly as it is home to the first UK’s Professor of Social Care Nursing and because of its interest and passion for whole system working, collaboration and inequalities.”

There will be an opportunity to hear from Deborah when she delivers an Honorary Lecture at the University on Wednesday 29 January, from 6.30pm. The event is open to all and free to attend - reserve your space now.