Introduction from Simon Chase, Interim Chief Allied Health Professional (CAHP)

Good afternoon, my name is Simon Chase and I have recently been appointed as Interim Chief Allied Health Professional (CAHP) for EEAST.

This is a new role for the Trust and a relatively new role for AHPs in the NHS. I am extremely proud to work for EEAST. I would like to start by thanking you, both as individuals and teams, for all the incredible work you are doing through this extremely challenging time. I continue to be humbled by the dedication of our staff, and going forwards, I feel very privileged to be working alongside you as your first Chief Allied Health Professional.

AHPs are the third largest group of clinicians working in healthcare, with clearly defined professional architecture, governance and funding arrangements as well as a new national strategy AHPs Deliver. Paramedics are, of course, the largest group within EEAST, but we are increasingly understanding the potential that other AHP roles may offer, particularly in terms of complementing our existing workforce delivering care to our patients in many forms. However, it is important to state my commitment is to all our people within EEAST, including students, PTS, volunteers, and as AHPs we really are at our best when we work in an integrated way within teams, systems, and as part of wider clinical and professional leadership.

In my new role, I will report into the Director of Nursing, Quality and Safety and will support the Executive team and Trust Board in understanding both the contribution and huge potential of our AHP workforce, championing professional standards and leadership while supporting strategic direction that is aligned to the Trusts objectives and priorities.

Hence, as your Chief AHP I will:

• Support you by understanding what works for you and what needs to be changed, including any development needs, so you can deliver the best possible care,
• Support the role of AHPs within the new Integrated Care Systems advocating for true system partnership - in the pragmatic way we as AHPs do,
• Support existing and new innovation such as advancing practice, use of digital technology, and growing bright ideas through quality improvement

and importantly

• Supporting and developing compassionate leadership and professional standards through a genuinely inclusive approach underpinned by a commitment to ending racism and inequality within the NHS.

 

I have worked for EEAST since 1995, and I have loved every moment of my time here. I have held a range of leadership roles including Operations, Education, Quality Improvement and more recently Deputy Clinical Director within the Clinical Directorate. I have also been a Freedom to Speak Up Guardian and I want you to know that I am committed to listening to you, understanding you and supporting you.

There will be many who do not yet know me, and I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible over the next few weeks. Ultimately I am committed being your voice and representative and supporting the Trust to support you to deliver the best possible care to our patients.

Please do feel free to get in touch with any comments or questions (ChiefAHP@eastamb.nhs.uk) and I will also be aiming to hold a series of meet and greet sessions which will be communicated soon.

I do look forward to working with you as the Interim Chief Allied Health Professional.

Simon Chase (PA 3473)

Published 26th January 2023