Former Scottish Health Secretary Jeane Freeman, a key figure in the country's response to the Covid pandemic, has passed away at the age of 72. Her partner shared that she died in hospital after a brief illness. Freeman's political career began as a special advisor to Labour First Minister Jack McConnell, and she later joined the SNP, becoming an MSP in 2016. She was appointed health secretary two years later and served until 2021. During her tenure, she initiated a public inquiry into the design, construction, commissioning, and maintenance of Glasgow's Queen Elizabeth University Hospital and a new children's hospital in Edinburgh. Before her political career, Freeman had a distinguished career in healthcare and social justice, running Apex Scotland for 12 years and receiving an OBE for her work in offender rehabilitation. She also chaired the Golden Jubilee Foundation and served on various boards, including the Parole Board for Scotland and the Judicial Appointments Board. Freeman's dedication to public service and her impact on Scottish healthcare and social justice will be remembered by many. Her partner, Susan Stewart, expressed her gratitude for the exceptional care received at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital and the outpouring of support from the public. The First Minister, John Swinney, paid tribute to her selfless service and deep values of fairness and justice, emphasizing her significant contribution to Scotland's social security system. Freeman's passing has left a void in Scottish politics and healthcare, and her legacy will continue to inspire those she touched.
