Charity Founder, Ailsa Bosworth MBE steps down after 18 years as CEO of the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society to take on a new role as National Patient Champion for people with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis.
The National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) announced that Ailsa Bosworth MBE, the charity’s Founder and CEO stepped down as CEO at the organisation’s AGM on 26 June and took on a new role as National Patient Champion. Clare Jacklin, who worked with Ailsa Bosworth for the last 12 years, took over as CEO from 27 June 2019.
Ailsa Bosworth founded NRAS, the only patient led UK organisation with a focus specifically on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), in 2001 and served as CEO for 18 years.
She made a huge contribution, not just to NRAS, but to the rheumatology community in the UK and Europe. She was awarded an MBE in 2016 for services to rheumatology. Ailsa, despite her own aggressive RA, is not going to retire but will be taking on a new role for NRAS as their National Patient Champion.
This will enable her to continue some of the innovative projects already in progress as well as represent the patient voice for NRAS at home and abroad.
Former Prime Minister and Maidenhead MP Theresa May, the charity’s patron, said: “I first recall meeting Ailsa over 18 years ago when she told me of her struggle with rheumatoid arthritis and her desire to make a change for others living with the condition.
“I was delighted when she asked me to be a patron of the newly formed National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society which she was setting up and I remain proud to be a patron today.
“Despite someone in the UK being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis every 20 minutes, this serious auto-immune disease is still frequently misunderstood. I am glad I can contribute to raising awareness of the impact of this awful condition.
“I look forward to continuing to work with NRAS as a patron and would like to take this opportunity to praise Ailsa for her commitment and dedication over the years. I wish Ailsa all the best for her future work as National Patient Champion.”
Incoming CEO, Clare Jacklin added:
“Ailsa’s work ethic, devotion and focus on the needs of those living with these complex conditions is exemplary.
“She has been a mentor to me, and others, and her influence has made an indelible impact on all NRAS staff as well as our members and volunteers. I want to thank Ailsa for all she’s done for the thousands of people living with rheumatoid arthritis and NRAS over the years. I am honoured to have been selected by the Board of Trustees during the succession process to follow in Ailsa’s footsteps.
“It is a privilege to be part of an organisation that delivers high quality services and innovative solutions to meet the needs of those living with, and the health professionals treating these incurable, auto-immune conditions.
“We are a patient organisation led by a purpose – to make a positive, meaningful impact that is reflected in our mission to Change Minds, Change Services and Change Lives which will ensure people can live full and active lives despite living with RA or JIA. I will do my best to serve the charity and the rheumatology community by leading this wonderful organisation and continue to challenge the status quo; empower and educate individuals to better self-manage their disease and strive for equity of access to best care for all.”