09.10.17
Former local government leader appointed as NHS England director
A former local government leader has been appointed NHS England’s new national learning disability director.
Ray James, the former national president of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS) and long-standing executive director of health housing and adult social care at the London Borough of Enfield has been selected to take on the role.
He has previously headed up significant work nationally and in his local council, where he led a number of services to win awards for safeguarding, community involvement and independent living for disabled adults.
“I’m delighted to have this opportunity to lead the NHS’s work with and for people with a learning disability and/or autism, their families and carers,” James said.
“I am particularly pleased to bring my background and values from a career in local government and social care to this role.
“There is much to do if we are to realise our ambition to support people to lead independent, inclusive lives in their communities, able to access high quality, care, support and/or treatment services when needed,” he continued.
“I am looking forward to the challenges and opportunities over the next couple of years and also want to express my thanks to all at Enfield Council for supporting my secondment.”
And Jane Cummings, chief nursing officer for England and regional Director for London added: “Ray has huge experience in local government and is a great addition to the NHS England team.
“We are committed to ensuring people with a learning disability get the right care and support using innovative services.
“Ray’s experience and knowledge will help ensure continuing progress across the NHS, local government and the third sector on our shared mission to drive new options for people with learning disabilities.”
Have you got a story to tell? Would you like to become an NHE columnist? If so, click here.