The Medical Journalists’ Association (MJA) is delighted to announce that experienced BBC journalists James Gallagher and Sharon Barbour have joined its executive committee.
Long-standing members of the association, James and Sharon join the committee at an exciting time for the MJA as it continues to expand the range of events, opportunities and benefits available to members.
James is a health and science correspondent for BBC News and has presented Radio 4’s Inside Health for the past five years. He has specialised in reporting on health and medicine since 2010, covering complex medical and scientific issues ranging from vaccine hesitancy to the rise of cancer immunotherapy.
Sharon is a BBC health correspondent and television news presenter based in the North East. She has led several award-winning investigations and exclusives, including reports on NHS IT failures and the dangers associated with metal-on-metal hip implants.
Their appointments bring valuable broadcast expertise to the committee, complementing the experience of members working across print, specialist, digital and healthcare communications.
Heartfelt thanks
The MJA would also like to extend its heartfelt thanks to Dawn Connelly and Carolyn Wickware, who are stepping down from the executive committee to focus on other commitments.
Dawn has served the association over many years in her role as membership secretary. Adele Waters will now take over the role.
Both Carolyn and Dawn will be greatly missed by the committee, and the MJA is deeply grateful for their commitment, wisdom and support in helping to shape and strengthen the MJA.
Shaun Lintern, MJA chair, said: “It is fantastic to welcome two outstanding journalists to the executive committee.
“James is one of the BBC’s leading science journalists and brings a valuable perspective that complements the expertise of our health journalism members.
“Sharon is an exceptional regional broadcaster and health correspondent with a strong track record of high-impact journalism.
“Together, they will help ensure the committee has the broadest possible understanding of the issues and challenges facing our profession, and I look forward to working with them.”
He added: “I would also like to thank Dawn and Carolyn for their dedicated service to the executive committee, particularly Dawn’s many years as membership secretary.
“She has supported countless members over the years and has always been there when help was needed.
“Both Dawn and Carolyn have played an important role in making the MJA the organisation it is today.”