Partnership pair aim to tackle health challenges

TWO new key appointments have been confirmed at the region's Health and Social Care Partnership. Gareth Marr, above, has been chosen as new chief officer, while Sean Barrett is the new interim chief finance officer. After a period as interim chief officer, Mr Marr's position has been made permanent. And this week he said: “I’m very proud to be taking on this role on a permanent basis. “The past months have shown me just how committed our staff, partners and communities are to improving outcomes for people across Dumfries and Galloway. “There are undoubtedly big challenges ahead - rising demand, workforce pressures and difficult financial circumstances - but also huge opportunities to do things differently and make a real difference. “My focus will remain on strengthening integration, supporting our teams and working collaboratively with communities to deliver care and support that help people to live healthier, fuller and more independent lives.” Welcoming him, NHS Dumfries and Galloway chief executive Julie White said: "He has shown real clarity of vision and a strong focus on joined-up, preventative approaches to care, which is exactly the qualities we need to navigate the complex landscape ahead.” [caption id="attachment_63953" align="alignnone" width="488"]

Sean Barrett[/caption] Meanwhile, Sean Barrett moves from Dumfries and Galloway Council, with over 20 years of experience in finance and business information management. He will support the financial planning and resource management during a period of significant system pressures. Mr Barrett said: “My focus will be on ensuring that resources are managed responsibly, supporting our teams, and helping to deliver the best possible outcomes for people across Dumfries and Galloway.” Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Care Partnership brings together NHS Dumfries and Galloway and Dumfries and Galloway Council as statutory partners, operating under the guidance of the Dumfries and Galloway Integration Joint Board (IJB).