DR Michelle Hinchliffe has been appointed palliative care consultant at Airedale Hospital.

The role will involve her working both at the hospital, in Steeton, and at Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice Manorlands.

Although originally from Shropshire, Dr Hinchliffe is no stranger to Airedale Hospital – she worked there six years ago during her junior doctor training. “I enjoyed working here before and it’s nice to see some familiar faces again,” she said.

The hospital’s palliative care team has also just appointed two clinical nurse specialists, who will work with Dr Hinchliffe on several innovative projects.

“Often in palliative care the focus tends to be on patients with cancer – but there are a lot of people with non-cancer diagnoses who have palliative care needs as well,” said Dr Hinchliffe. “I’m hoping to work with the cardiology team and alongside the paediatric and neuro-rehab teams.”

Her aims include smoothing the transition from paediatrics to adult care for young people with life-limiting conditions.

For more about the hospital’s palliative care, visit airedale-trust.nhs.uk/services/palliative-care/palliative-care-information.