The passing of former Scottish Health Secretary Jeane Freeman at the age of 72 marks a significant moment, especially given her pivotal role during the Covid pandemic response. Her partner shared that she passed away in a hospital after a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy that many will remember.
Freeman's journey into politics was rooted in her extensive background as a nurse, justice advocate, and civil servant. She initially worked as a special advisor to Labour First Minister Jack McConnell before transitioning to the Scottish National Party (SNP), where she successfully campaigned for a seat in the Scottish Parliament.
Elected as a Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) in 2016, she took on the mantle of health secretary in 2018, serving until the 2021 elections. During her tenure, she became a familiar face at the daily media briefings conducted by the Scottish government amid the pandemic, steering public health discussions and decisions.
Born and raised in Ayr, Freeman dedicated much of her career to the health and social justice fields prior to her political endeavors. For over a decade, she led Apex Scotland, a social enterprise focused on helping former prisoners reintegrate into society, and she was honored with an OBE in 1996 for her contributions to offender rehabilitation.
Her influence extended beyond politics; she held leadership roles such as chairing the Golden Jubilee Foundation and serving on the Parole Board for Scotland and the Judicial Appointments Board. As MSP for Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley from 2016 to 2021, she was instrumental in initiating a public inquiry into serious concerns surrounding the design and management of Glasgow's Queen Elizabeth University Hospital and a new children's hospital in Edinburgh.
After stepping down in 2021, Freeman provided testimony at both the UK Covid Inquiry and the Scottish Hospitals Inquiry, reflecting her commitment to transparent governance.
In a heartfelt tribute, her partner Susan Stewart recounted the unexpected diagnosis of incurable cancer Freeman received on January 13, which gave them only 25 days together. Stewart praised Freeman’s courage and love during this challenging time and expressed gratitude for the exceptional care they received from the staff at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. "Be kind to each other, that is what changes the world," Stewart emphasized, highlighting the importance of compassion in our lives.
Describing their partnership of more than 25 years, Stewart remarked on her admiration for Freeman's dedication to her professional life and her heartfelt moments, including her joy in volunteering at the Beatson Centre.
First Minister John Swinney expressed his profound sorrow over Freeman's passing, stating, "I am heart sore this morning at the death of Jeane Freeman, a wonderful Cabinet colleague. Jeane gave selfless service to Scotland, particularly as health secretary during Covid. She infused dignity and respect into Scotland's social security system, embodying deep values of fairness and justice. Her contributions were immense, and my deepest sympathies go out to Susan and her loved ones."
As we reflect on Jeane Freeman’s impactful life and career, what do you think her legacy will mean for future generations of leaders in health and social justice? Share your thoughts below.
