New health and social care chief officer for Aberdeenshire

The integration of Health and Social Care Services in Aberdeenshire has taken a step forward with the appointment of Adam Coldwells as chief officer for the new service.

Aberdeenshire Council and NHS Grampian Board approved the Joint Board model for the integration of health and social care services in October.

This requires the appointment of a chief officer who will be accountable to the chief executives of both organisations through the Transitional Leadership Group and then the Joint Board as the legislation comes into place.

Adam, who is currently the general manager for Aberdeenshire CHP and who is also covering the role of general manager for Moray Community Health and Social Care Partnership, will take up the chief officer role in March.

He has previously worked in the Acute Sector as a member of the senior management team.

His NHS career started some 20 years ago, having completed several years undertaking post-doctoral research into ageing on tolerance to shift work.

He said: “I am delighted to be appointed to take forward the work of integrating health and social care services in Aberdeenshire.

“It is a huge challenge to incorporate two large and complex organisations but one I am looking forward to.

“The aim of integration is to provide a seamless service for all of our users.

‘‘It will also build on the work which is under way with our communities and third sector colleagues.

‘‘This will support our Aberdeenshire citizens to be happier, healthier and also to live independently in their homes for longer.

“We will work tirelessly on continuing to improve the quality and experience for all who use and work with our emerging Partnership.”