A CONSULTANT in emergency medicine has been identified as one of the rising stars of the National Health Service.

Dr Helen Law, who works for the Harrogate Healthcare Trust, has been chosen by an independent charity, the Health Foundation, as one of its first Leadership Fellows.

The leadership award is designed to nurture future leaders in healthcare, individuals who will improve and transform local health services and make a real difference to the quality of services for patients.

In her current role, Dr Law is responsible for the clinical and managerial aspects of the accident and emergency department at Harrogate District Hospital.

She ensures that it interacts effectively with other departments to provide the best patient care.

Through the fellowship award she intends to gain the knowledge and skills to be able to lead a period of significant change expected in the provision of emergency care in the next few years.

Dr Law said: "I believe the Health Foundation Leadership Fellows award will provide me with a unique opportunity to review my current capabilities and develop the appropriate knowledge, skills and attitude to enable me to become an effective leader.

"I expect my personal learning to have a positive influence within my organisation on patient care, staff development and trust strategy."

The chief executive of the trust, Miles Scott, said: "This is an excellent achievement and the trust is delighted that Dr Law has attained this accolade.

"I have no doubt that Dr Law will benefit a great deal from the development programme this fellowship offers, and will continue to enhance her own professional skills while aiding the further advancement of patient care standards."