Board changes at South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust
South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust (SWLSTG) has announced that Steve Gillard will be joining as its new University Non-Executive Director, while Humaira Ashraf, Associate Non-Executive Director, will be stepping down after two years of dedicated service.
Steve Gillard will join the SWLSTG Board in November 2025. He is currently Professor of Mental Health Research and Associate Dean for Research & Innovation in the School of Health & Medical Sciences at City St George’s, University of London. His research focuses on transforming mental health care through empowering people to make sense of their experiences, build relationships, and connect with their communities. Beyond peer support, Steve’s work addresses mental health crisis care, health inequalities, and trauma-informed approaches, co-producing research alongside researchers, survivors, and communities with lived experience.
Humaira Ashraf will leave the SWLSTG Board in December 2025. Over the past two years, she has brought extensive experience in workforce, culture, and the NHS, having held senior roles across several healthcare organisations. Before joining us, Humaira worked at St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, where she was Acting Chief People Officer and Director of Education, Culture and Organisational Development.
Ann Beasley, Chair of South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to welcome Steve. We’re looking forward to Steve bringing his expertise and experience of mental health to our Board. His commitment to co-production and inclusive research will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our partnerships with universities and communities to improve mental health outcomes across South West London.
“I also want to personally thank Humaira for her dedication and wise counsel over the past two years. Her contributions to our Trust have been invaluable –particularly her strategic expertise in improving our workforce and culture. Her leadership on the Board Charter will also prove a lasting legacy.”
Humaira Ashraf said: “It has been a real privilege to serve as part of the SWLSTG Board, and I remain deeply committed to the Trust’s mission and success.”
Steve Gillard said: “I’m honoured to join SWLSTG as a Non-Executive Director and look forward to working collaboratively to support innovation, inclusion, and excellence in mental health care across our communities.”
