NHS Trust appoints new Chair

County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust has appointed a new Chair. Professor Richard Scothon, a previous Non-Executive of the Trust, will take up the role with effect from 1 March 2023.

Professor Scothon brings to the role a wide range of senior oversight experience in health research and innovation, equality, diversity and inclusion as well as audit and operational performance. Most recently, Professor Scothon has also been Chair of the Trust's Charitable Funds Committee and is a passionate advocate for the Charity and its work in enhancing patient care and experience across local health services.

Professor Scothon, who lives in Durham, is an active member of the community which includes sitting as a Justice. He also holds an MBA from Durham University.

Professor Scothon said: "I am honoured to be appointed as Chair of County Durham and Darlington Foundation Trust.  In the present climate I realise it will be a demanding responsibility.  However, I am looking forward to working with all the fantastic Team CDDFT staff, in order to make sure we deliver the best quality care to the people we serve."

Professor Scothon takes up the role as Professor Paul Keane OBE steps down after eight years as the Trust's Chair.

Sue Jacques, Chief Executive of County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust said: "We are delighted that Richard has been appointed as the new Chair. He has been an asset to the Trust in recent years in his role as Chair of the Trust's Charity and as a Non-Executive Director. We very much look forward to working with him in this new capacity. Both the Trust and our local communities will benefit from his leadership, challenge and wide ranging experience as we go forward together providing safe, compassionate and joined-up care.

"I would also like to express our heartfelt thanks to Professor Paul Keane who has been a compassionate and dedicated Chair supporting the Trust and our people to innovate and develop while also ensuring their own wellbeing remained a priority especially during the COVID-19 Pandemic. We will miss him and wish him the very best for the future."