22.07.16
Tributes paid after death of ADASS president
Tributes have been paid to Harold Bomer, the president of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services (ADASS), after his sudden death.
Bodmer, 61, had worked as director of adult social services at Norfolk County Council since 2006 and was elected as president of ADASS in April this year.
Figures in the world of health and social care have paid warm tributes to his dedication to his work.
Stephen Dorrell, chair of the NHS Confederation, said: “I and my colleagues at the NHS Confederation are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden death of Harold Bodmer.
“Over recent months we have got to know Harold in his new role as president of ADASS and to appreciate the thought and consideration he brought to complex debates around social care funding and his commitment to improving care locally.
“Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.”
Margaret Willcox, the vice-president of ADASS, and Ray James, the immediate past president, said: “Many people today have used the words "such a lovely, honourable man" capturing how, in addition to his professionalism and expertise, his values, integrity, compassion, humility and warmth meant Harold was not only deeply respected but also held in great affection by so many people.”
Bodmer was a strong advocate for support for social care. Following the publication of the latest ADASS survey last week, he warned: “Unless the government addresses the chronic underfunding of the sector, there will be worrying consequences for the NHS and, most importantly, older and disabled people, their families and carers.”
(Image c. ADASS)
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