Barbara Young, Baroness Young of Old Scone, Scottish academic and politician

Baroness Barbara Scott Young of Old Scone, born on 8 April 1948, is a highly distinguished Scottish public servant, environmentalist, and health advocate, currently serving as a Scottish Labour member of the House of Lords. Her extensive career spans leadership roles across various critical sectors in the United Kingdom, leaving an indelible mark on environmental policy, healthcare regulation, and public service. Renowned for her steadfast commitment and impactful leadership, she was granted a life peerage on 4 November 1997, formally becoming Baroness Young of Old Scone, of Old Scone in Perth and Kinross, an honour that recognized her significant contributions to public life.

A Distinguished Career in Environmental Stewardship

Baroness Young's deep-rooted passion for the environment is evident through a substantial portion of her career. She currently serves as the Chair of the Woodland Trust, a prominent conservation charity dedicated to protecting and restoring woods and trees in the UK. Her involvement began in January 2016 when she joined the Trust's Board, ascending to the pivotal role of Chair on 9 June 2016. Under her guidance, the Woodland Trust continues its vital work in preserving natural habitats and engaging communities in conservation efforts.

Perhaps one of her most influential environmental roles was as the Chief Executive of the Environment Agency from 2000 until May 2008. This period marked a significant chapter where she spearheaded the organization responsible for environmental protection and improvement in England. Her leadership at the Environment Agency was so impactful that it led to a notable shift in her parliamentary affiliation, as she became a non-affiliated member in the House of Lords, having previously taken the Labour whip. This move underscored her commitment to serving the agency's mission without direct party political alignment.

Prior to her tenure at the Environment Agency, Baroness Young also held other crucial environmental positions, including serving as the Chair of English Nature, a public body dedicated to conserving England's natural wildlife and geology. Furthermore, her early career saw her as the Chief Executive of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), one of the largest wildlife conservation charities in Europe. These roles collectively highlight her consistent dedication to safeguarding the natural world and shaping national environmental policies.

Impactful Leadership in Health and Public Services

Beyond her profound contributions to environmental conservation, Baroness Young has also demonstrated exceptional leadership within the health sector and broader public service. From 1 November 2010 to September 2015, she served as the Chief Executive of Diabetes UK, the leading charity for people with diabetes in the UK. During her time there, she was instrumental in driving the charity's efforts in research, campaigning, and providing support for individuals living with diabetes, aiming to improve their lives and find a cure.

Before joining Diabetes UK, Baroness Young played a foundational role in the establishment of the Care Quality Commission (CQC), the independent regulator of health and social care in England. Her appointment as the inaugural Chair of the CQC was announced by the then Health Secretary Alan Johnson on 15 April 2008. This critical appointment followed a rigorous, independent recruitment exercise conducted by the Appointments Commission and a comprehensive pre-appointment scrutiny hearing by the Health Select Committee, which subsequently endorsed her as the ideal candidate. Her leadership was vital in setting the strategic direction and operational framework for the CQC, a body entrusted with ensuring high standards of care across the country. She held this influential position until 1 February 2010, laying the groundwork for its crucial regulatory functions.

Her extensive experience in healthcare management also includes serving as the Chief Executive of several local health authorities, such as the Parkside Health Authority. These early roles provided her with a deep understanding of the intricacies of healthcare provision at a grassroots level, preparing her for the national leadership challenges she would later undertake.

Diverse Contributions and Recognitions

Baroness Young's commitment to public service extends beyond the environmental and health sectors. She has held diverse and influential positions, showcasing her versatility and breadth of expertise. Notably, she served as Vice Chairman of the BBC, contributing to the governance of one of the world's most respected public service broadcasters. She also served as a board member of AWG plc, a significant infrastructure and utilities company, demonstrating her involvement in the private sector and major public utilities.

Her intellectual contributions and leadership have been widely recognized in academic circles. In 2010, she was appointed Chancellor of Cranfield University, a prestigious institution specializing in science, engineering, technology, and management. This role highlights her commitment to education and fostering future leaders. Further cementing her academic standing, she was elected an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh in 2017, an esteemed recognition for individuals who have made significant contributions to Scottish and wider society.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Baroness Young of Old Scone?

Baroness Barbara Scott Young of Old Scone is a distinguished Scottish life peer and public servant. She is known for her extensive leadership roles in environmental conservation, healthcare regulation, and various other public service organizations in the United Kingdom, and is currently a Scottish Labour member of the House of Lords.

What is Baroness Young's current primary role?

As of 9 June 2016, Baroness Young is the Chair of the Woodland Trust, a major UK conservation charity dedicated to protecting and restoring woods and trees.

What is the significance of the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in her career?

Baroness Young was the inaugural Chair of the Care Quality Commission (CQC) from April 2008 to February 2010. This was a critical role as she helped establish and lead the independent regulatory body responsible for ensuring the quality and safety of health and social care services in England, setting the foundation for its vital work.

What is a 'life peer' in the House of Lords?

A 'life peer' is an individual appointed to the House of Lords for the duration of their life, in recognition of their significant contributions to public life. Unlike hereditary peers, their title and seat in Parliament cannot be passed on to their descendants. Baroness Young was created a life peer on 4 November 1997.

What kind of organizations has Baroness Young led?

Baroness Young has led a diverse range of prominent organizations, including environmental bodies like the Environment Agency, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), and English Nature; health organizations such as Diabetes UK and the Care Quality Commission (CQC); and has held senior roles at institutions like the BBC and Cranfield University. This demonstrates her broad expertise and leadership capabilities across multiple sectors.