Abi Hilton

Deputy Director of Nursing and Quality at Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust

Chorley, England, United Kingdom

About

Collaborative and patient-focused Deputy Director of Nursing and Quality with over 20 years of experience spanning mental health and physical health nursing, including more than 15 years in senior clinical and operational leadership roles. Recognised for a compassionate yet strategic approach to leadership and a steadfast commitment to excellence in patient safety, quality improvement, and staff wellbeing. I bring a broad portfolio of experience in managing multiple services across complex physical and mental health settings, ensuring consistently high standards of care, strong governance, and seamless operational delivery. I’m passionate about empowering and developing the workforce, creating a culture where every team member feels valued, supported, and motivated to deliver outstanding care. A proven track record of leading multiple high-level projects across large NHS Foundation Trusts — from service redesign and quality transformation to workforce development and digital innovation. My focus is always on improving patient outcomes, enhancing staff experience, and embedding sustainable, evidence-based improvements that make a measurable difference. Experienced in working closely with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to ensure full regulatory compliance, strengthen governance frameworks, and drive continuous quality improvement. Skilled in preparing for and leading CQC inspections, embedding learning from reviews, and building systems that promote transparency, safety, and accountability. A confident communicator and visible leader, I work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, system partners, and regulators to achieve shared goals. Known for maintaining calm, clarity, and compassion under pressure, I lead with authenticity and integrity — ensuring that care quality and patient safety remain at the heart of every decision. Dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for service users and their families, I’m driven by a deep commitment to values-based leadership, continuous improvement, and innovation in healthcare. Looking to connect with professionals who share a passion for nursing leadership, patient safety, service transformation, and quality improvement.

Experience

  • Lancashire & South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust (On-site)
    • Deputy Director of Nursing and Quality
      Sep 2024 - Present · 1 yr 10 mos

    • Associate Director of Nursing
      Jan 2024 - Sep 2024 · 9 mos

    • Senior Nurse Manager (SNM)
      Sep 2022 - Jan 2024 · 1 yr 5 mos

      Senior Nurse Manager reporting directly to the Network Director of Nursing and Quality for Central and West Lanchashire.

  • Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (Full-time · 14 yrs 1 mo)
    • Consultant Nurse / Advanced Clinical Practitioner
      Nov 2019 - Sep 2022 · 2 yrs 11 mos

    • Service Manager (Adult and Older Adult Inpatients and CMHT)
      Sep 2014 - Nov 2019 · 5 yrs 3 mos

    • Deputy Matron
      Feb 2010 - Nov 2014 · 4 yrs 10 mos

  • RMN at Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust
    Mar 2007 - Sep 2008 · 1 yr 7 mos

  • Healthcare Assistant (Bank) at Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust
    Mar 2004 - Mar 2007 · 3 yrs 1 mo