Wiltshire names new director of public health

Wiltshire Council has appointed Kate Blackburn as its new director of public health for the county. 

Ms Blackburn has been acting director since the end of May 2020.

She has worked in public health in the south west for over a decade both regionally and locally, and prior to that in the NHS, she’s a microbiologist by background.

In addition, she has worked on a range of public health issues including child poverty, sustainable development, suicide and self-harm prevention, public health intelligence, healthcare public health, screening and immunisations, ageing well, and has a passion for reducing health inequalities and improving health and wellbeing.

‘Kate stepped into this role at a very challenging time and has been integral to our local response to Covid-19,’ said chief executice, Terence Herbert.

‘She has shown great leadership and her expertise and dedication are a true asset to the council. I wish Kate every success as she continues to deliver for our communities.’

Ms Blackburn added: ‘I’m excited and proud to be appointed to this role and to continue to support our communities at this really difficult time.

‘My immediate focus is to help the people of Wiltshire during the pandemic and work together to keep the virus under control in the county. If we all play our part then we’ll get through this.’

Photo Credit – Free-Photos (Pixabay)