Zoë Billingham, author of police abuse report becomes chair of Norfolk and Suffolk NHS trust

The author of a report on how police abuse their positions for sexual purposes has been appointed as chair of the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (NSFT).

Zoë Billingham, who has 12 years’ experience of making improvements in organisations through her work in Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services in England and Wales, will join the trust next month.

In 2019, Ms Billingham authored a report called ‘Shining a light on betrayal', which has received renewed attention in light of the murder of Sarah Everard.

Speaking on the Guardian this week, Ms Billingham said: “My view is we can’t abide by the narrative that this was a one-off, this was a rarity.

"We need to treat this as though it might happen again. In fact, I think police systems are such that it could still happen again.”

Ms Billingham, who has long been an advocate for improving the treatment of people who have mental health illness, lives in Suffolk and was born in Norfolk.

She said of her appointment: “I am incredibly excited to have been chosen to be chair. Everyone I’ve spoken to, internally and externally, has told me that the trust is an improving organisation, led with compassion. Your hard work is shining through.

“For my part, I am keen to work with and listen very hard to you and those with lived experience, as your collective insight will help make even better services.”

Ann Radmore, regional director of the NHS in the East of England, said: “Zoe’s local knowledge, professional background and strong interest in advocating for improved services for patients with mental health conditions, make her an excellent fit with NSFT and its staff.