Beyond barriers: the power of support & action in leadership

Kelly Angus, interim chief people officer at North East and North Cumbria ICB

This International Women’s Day, I’ve been reflecting on my journey in the NHS and the incredible women who have supported, inspired, and shaped my career. My first role in the NHS was a junior training position, and from there, I took on various opportunities in HR, organisational development, and general management. Each role deepened my understanding of the people who make healthcare work and the importance of strong, supportive leadership.

The theme of this year’s #AccelerateAction really resonates with me. Progress isn’t just about moving forward; it’s about making sure everyone has the opportunity to succeed. I’ve been lucky to have senior leaders who championed my progression, and now I’m committed to doing the same for others. Mentoring and supporting colleagues—both in the NHS and through professional coaching schemes—has become one of the most rewarding parts of my role. No one should feel that barriers stand in the way of their career development!

One of the biggest moments in my career was stepping into a senior leadership role. It was exciting, a little daunting, but most of all, it was possible because of the support I had around me. That experience reinforced how important it is to lift others up and ensure that women feel empowered to take those steps with confidence.

Women often juggle multiple responsibilities, professionally and personally, and it’s still too often assumed that they will take on the majority of domestic, caring, and childcare duties. This expectation can often be a barrier to progression for many women. However, change is happening. Flexible working, shared responsibilities, and better workplace support are helping to remove some of these challenges, but there’s still more to do.

In the North East and North Cumbria, I’m proud to see so many incredible female leaders, not just in health and care but across wider industries. The opportunities for career progression and development are better than ever, but we must keep pushing forward, ensuring women have equal opportunities to succeed.

Throughout my career, I’ve been inspired by so many people, but one person stands out—Ros. When I was a junior personnel assistant at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, far from home, she saw potential in me before I saw it in myself. She encouraged me to go to university and build a career in people management. That encouragement, along with her unwavering support (and the best homemade lasagne I’ve ever had!), shaped my path in ways I will always be grateful for.

Ros taught me to think beyond the boundaries of a job; and that it’s about supporting others, offering kindness, and building on genuine values. To this day, we still keep in touch, and she remains one of my biggest inspirations.

When it comes to achieving gender equality in healthcare leadership, action is just as important as representation. We need to ensure that we use inclusive language, actively address discrimination, and that career opportunities are truly equitable. Working closely with trade unions and staff-side colleagues is crucial in holding us accountable and ensuring that gender equality isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we actively work towards every day.

To the next generation of women in healthcare leadership: go for it. The NHS is full of opportunities, and leadership exists at every level! Seek out development programmes, find a mentor or coach, and never hold yourself back. You can achieve great things.

Progress happens when we take action, challenge barriers, and lift each other up. Let’s keep pushing forward—together.