The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has joined more than 50 other public and private sector organisations committed to making a fairer society for all.

The Trust has signed up to a 'Purpose Coalition' to provide equal opportunities in care and recruitment, among other areas. A 'Levelling Up Impact Report' will be produced by former Education Secretary Justine Greening and former Public Health Minister Anne Milton, to measure its impact against 14 'Levelling Up Goals'.

Businesses, universities, policymakers and regulators have been consulted to establish what key areas will be addressed. These are said to include education, health and wellbeing, open recruitment, closing the digital divide and more.

Justine Greening said: “NHS Trusts play a key role in society by boosting opportunity and driving levelling up in their communities. The health inequalities that exist in different communities across the UK have been highlighted even more following the coronavirus pandemic. We must continue to work together to drive change and ensure that tackling these inequalities becomes a priority across the UK."

Dr Susan Gilby, Chief Executive of the Countess of Chester Hospital, said: "As an anchor organisation committed to addressing social inequalities in our community, I am immensely proud that the Trust is the first NHS acute provider organisation in the Northwest to join the Purpose Coalition.

"The Levelling Up Goals framework provides a mechanism for guiding and tracking progress in tackling these inequalities. I am excited to begin work with Justine, Anne and other partner organisations to help achieve positive change for our communities."