FORMER Civic Mayor of Tameside Councillor Tafheen Sharif has become a new patron of Willow Wood Hospice.
Cllr Sharif JP made history by becoming the first Muslim and ethnic minority person to serve as the borough’s Civic Mayor during 2023/24, helping to raise thousands of pounds for charities.
She has represented the Mossley ward on Tameside Council since 2016 and has been a member of several panels and committees, including Chair of the Children’s Services Scrutiny Panel. She now serves as the Assistant Cabinet Member for community cohesion.
Cllr Sharif has been a long-time supporter of the hospice, based in Ashton-under-Lyne, which provides care for patients with any life-limiting illnesses in Tameside and Glossop.
Patrons help raise valuable funds for Willow Wood and generate awareness of the hospice’s achievements and campaigns.
She said she is “truly humbled” to be asked to take on the role.
“Willow Wood is our special gem in Tameside and it means so much to many of our families across the borough,” Cllr Sharif explained.
“I don’t take any responsibility lightly and I look forward to raising Willow Wood’s profile and adding further value to this amazing place.”
Tracy Minshull, CEO of Willow Wood Hospice, said: “We are delighted to welcome Taf as our newest patron and we are looking forward to working with her.
“Taf’s dedication and passion for improving the lives of local people can make a real difference in our mission, to lead and deliver high quality multi-professional specialist palliative care, support and education across Tameside and Glossop.”
Cllr Sharif JP holds a legal honours degree and works in the courts service. She is a Justice of the Peace and has governed across many schools over the years.
The former Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner for Bedfordshire has held a number of directorships and board level positions, including at a law centre and a housing association.
Since 2015, she has served on the board of Home-Start HOST, presently Vice Chair, a charity which helps families in Tameside and beyond.