30.05.13
NHS Confederation seconds chief nurse to lead on Francis reforms
Chief nurse and director of organisational development at Cambridge University Hospitals, Dr Karen Castille OBE, is to join the NHS Confederation on secondment as associate director.
Dr Castille will lead the NHS Confederation’s work supporting the NHS in response to the Francis report, as well as board leadership, culture and values, ensuring nurses are empowered and supporting female senior leaders within the NHS.
She said: “I am passionate about the NHS, its staff and the work we do for patients. I am therefore delighted to be joining the NHS Confederation and have always been impressed by the excellent work they do to support and represent the NHS. Whilst I am sad to be leaving Cambridge, I regard this opportunity to be an immense privilege and look forward to working with a wide range of NHS staff and partners.”
Dr Keith McNeil, chief executive of Cambridge University Hospitals, said: “Karen has made a huge contribution here in her time at Addenbrooke's, with the trust being declared hospital of the year under her leadership. We are sorry to be losing her, but at the same time pleased that the recognition she has gained here has resulted in her moving to a high-profile role where her contribution will be felt nationally.”
NHS Confederation chief executive Mike Farrar said: “I am delighted that Karen is joining us. The Francis report represents a turning point in the NHS and she will bring invaluable leadership to our work in this area, drawing on her extensive leadership and nursing background.”
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