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New directors of nursing announced by NHS England

Two directors will help tackle challenges facing the profession.
Paul Vaughan

NHS England has announced two new directors of nursing to help tackle challenges facing the profession.


Director of nursing for transformation Paul Vaughan. Picture: Charles Milligan

The new director of nursing for transformation will be RCN West Midlands regional director Paul Vaughan. His role will oversee work on the image of nursing, primary and community care, as well as supporting innovation and transformation.

Ashford and St. Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust chief nurse Heather Caudle will be director of nursing for improvement, with key areas of responsibility including safeguarding, continuing healthcare, and midwifery and children's care.

Crucial work

Welcoming the new appointments, chief nursing officer for England Jane Cummings said: 'I am thrilled to be working with Paul and Heather on some of the challenges that matter the most to our workforce.

'This crucial work will drive the changes needed so that we can continue to provide the best possible care to patients.'

Mr Vaughan's role as regional director has included the cultural ambassador programme, a project that aims to reduce the risk of discrimination against black and minority ethnic nursing staff facing disciplinary action. He is currently studying for a master's degree in management with the University of Liverpool, and his dissertation focuses on factors that enable nursing staff to raise concerns in their workplace.

Growing demand

Commenting on his appointment, Mr Vaughan said: 'The health and care sector is experiencing unprecedented demand. Now more than ever, all nursing, midwifery and care staff need to embrace the leadership role so we can create the change we need to meet this demand.

'I look forward to supporting an adaptable, dynamic workforce of the future that will empower people, enabling them to make important decisions about their care.'


Director of nursing for improvement Heather Caudle.
Picture: Barney Newman

Ms Caudle has been chief nurse at her trust since 2014 and joined the organisation in 2011 as associate director of quality. Over the past 20 years she has worked as a nurse, a systemic psychotherapist and a strategic leader in mental health, physical health and supported housing sectors.

She said of her appointment: 'At this critical time for the future of the NHS it is vital that patients, the public and healthcare professionals work together to co-design the best possible compassionate care.

'As a profession we know where changes can drive better patient experience and outcomes.'
 


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