24/06/2026
It is with deep shock and great sadness that the Western Health and Social Care Trust announces the sudden passing of its Chair, Dr Tom Frawley CBE.
Dr Frawley was a much-loved and deeply respected public servant who had served as Chair of the Trust since 2023. During this time, he provided outstanding leadership, guiding the organisation with wisdom, warmth and an unwavering commitment to the people and communities we serve.
Beginning his career in the NHS, Dr Frawley went on to hold a number of senior leadership roles, including Chief Executive of the former Western Health and Social Services Board, and later served with great distinction as Northern Ireland Ombudsman and Commissioner for Complaints. Throughout his career, he made an outstanding contribution to public service, helping to shape and strengthen the services that matter to people.
He was widely admired for his integrity, insight and sound judgement, as well as for his wit, kindness and ability to connect with people at all levels. He cared deeply about our staff, our patients and clients, and the wider community, and was a passionate advocate for health and social care services across the West. His contribution to this Trust and to public service more broadly will be remembered with immense gratitude.
Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his wife Marie, his children Rachel, Joe and Dan, and the wider family circle at this very sad time. He will be greatly missed by his many friends and colleagues across the public sector.
Karen Hargan
Chief Executive