Lord Matthew Taylor Appointed New Chair of Cornwall NHS Trust

Former Truro and St Austell MP, Lord Matthew Taylor of Goss Moor, has been appointed as the new Chair of Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust. He will succeed Margaret Schwarz, who is stepping down after completing her maximum term. Lord Taylor, a passionate advocate for the NHS with deep roots in Cornwall, expressed his privilege in taking on the role and his commitment to working with the trust’s dedicated staff.

Key Takeaways

• Lord Matthew Taylor, former MP for Truro and St Austell, is the new Chair of Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.
• He takes over from Margaret Schwarz, who has served the maximum term.
• Lord Taylor brings extensive board-level experience and a lifelong commitment to the NHS.
• His first board meeting as Chair will be in January 2026.

A New Chapter for Cornwall’s NHS

Lord Matthew Taylor of Goss Moor, a familiar figure in Cornish politics, has been entrusted with leading the Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust as its new Chair. His appointment marks a significant transition for the trust, which provides vital health services across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Lord Taylor, who represented Truro and St Austell for over two decades before entering the House of Lords in 2010, has long been a vocal supporter of the National Health Service.

A Passionate Advocate Takes the Helm

Speaking about his new role, Lord Taylor conveyed his deep sense of privilege. “As a lifelong Cornish resident and passionate advocate of the National Health Service, I feel privileged to be asked to take on this role,” he stated. He acknowledged the invaluable work of the trust’s more than 4,000 staff and expressed his eagerness to collaborate with them to ensure the delivery of high-quality services across all communities. Lord Taylor’s commitment to patient and staff experience was noted as a key factor during the recruitment process.

Transition and Recognition

Lord Taylor will officially assume his duties, chairing his first board of directors meeting in January 2026. He succeeds Margaret Schwarz, who is departing after nearly a decade of service, including four years as Chair. Trust Chief Executive Debbie Richards lauded Ms Schwarz for her “outstanding contribution,” describing her as a “compassionate and inclusive leader” who consistently prioritized improving patient care. Ms Richards also expressed her delight in welcoming Lord Taylor, highlighting his “unique and fresh perspective” and his proven track record in community development.

Endorsements from NHS Leadership

The appointment has been met with widespread approval from NHS leaders. John Govett, Chair of the Integrated Care Board for NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly and NHS Devon, welcomed Lord Taylor, stating, “His extensive experience, knowledge of Cornwall, and proven leadership at board level make him an excellent appointment.” He anticipates that Lord Taylor’s insight will be instrumental in guiding the trust towards continued improvements in care and services for the region’s patients and communities.

Sources

• Former MP appointed Cornwall NHS Trust chair, BBC.
• Former Cornish MP Matthew Taylor Appointed Chair of Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Cornish Stuff.
• Lord Matthew Taylor is new Cornwall Partnership NHS chair, Falmouth Packet.