Southern Health appoints new chairman

Lynne Hunt, who has worked almost 40 years in public service, will take over from interim chairman Alan Yates on July 3.

The process to appoint the role involved service users, staff and partner organisations.

Ms Hunt said: ‘I’m delighted to have been given this opportunity.

‘My focus has always been on improving patient care and delivering quality services that fit the needs of all patients and service users.

‘So my experience and clinical background will be invaluable in building on the good progress already made.

‘Southern Health has been on a journey in recent years and I see my appointment as being an important next step as the trust continues on this journey of improvement.’

Ms Hunt began her career as a nurse in Dorset and most recently served as non-executive director and vice-chairman of Dorset Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.