Laura Wiltshire

Laura Wiltshire (she/her) is a social worker by background, and is currently care group director at Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust. Laura is an experienced clinical and operational leader. Having qualified as a social worker in 2007, she remained in the field of mental health throughout her career.

Laura is a passionate feminist, a proud lesbian and an active trans ally living in Sheffield.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your career journey so far.

Laura spent her first five years in private health care, before moving to public services and becoming an approved mental health professional in 2015. Laura has spent the last five years in purely operational leadership roles, but remains true to her social work values and beliefs in all she does.

Outside of work, Laura is a trustee for SAYiT, a local youth LGBTQ+ charity, and is also a governor for a mental health NHS Trust. In her personal life, Laura is a devoted dog mum to two gorgeous Gran Canarian hounds, a new runner and an avid bird watcher (basically all things nature is what she loves).

What is one lesson or piece of advice you’d like to give aspiring LGBTQ+ leaders?

Lift as you climb, and remember you have privilege over others. It may not always feel like that but is usually the case. Use your platform to bring others with you as you progress in your career as people will do for you. Another area I think is important is executive support and sponsorship. We all need role models.

What are you most looking forward to about joining the Health and Care LGBTQ+ Leaders Network?

Shaping the network and influencing the future!