Wheelchair Alliance announces Rt Honourable Lord Hunt as its newest patron

The Wheelchair Alliance is proud to announce the Rt Honourable Lord Philip Hunt of Kings Heath OBE as our latest patron.

Lord Hunt has signed up for the honorary role to help the Alliance in its drive to improve the lives of wheelchair users across the UK.

Having previously served in a number of ministerial positions including Deputy Leader of the House of Lords, Minister of State at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and as a minister in the Department of Health, Lord Hunt was the first chief executive of the NHS Confederation from 1996 to 1997 and director of the National Association of Health Authorities and Trusts since its formation in 1990. In 1993 he was awarded an OBE for services to the NHS.

He was also a Member of the General Medical Council from 2008 to 2024 and President of the Royal Society for Public Health from 2010 and 2018.

Speaking of his appointment, Lord Hunt said: “Having worked in the health space for many years, I understand the problems faced by wheelchair users in getting the right chair at the right time.

“I’ve been incredibly impressed with the work of the Wheelchair Alliance which is why it’s an honour to support the Alliance.

“As patron I look forward to ensuring the voices of wheelchair users are heard at the highest levels via my role as a member of the House of Lords.”

Of his appointment, Nick Goldup chief executive officer of the Alliance, said: “Having Lord Hunt as our newest patron is a great step forward for us as a community interest company.

“With his understanding of the health environment, he is an excellent ally to help us make positive change when it comes to wheelchair provision.”

This news follows the announcement last year of Nick Wilson, speaker, disabled adventurer and content creator, becoming the Alliance’s first patron.