NHS and Social Care Boss Takes Charge in Portsmouth
Portsmouth’s health and social care services are about to get a major shake-up. From April 1, Innes Richens, the current chief operating officer at NHS Portsmouth Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), will also lead adult social care for Portsmouth City Council. This dual role is set to smash down barriers and bring services closer than ever before.
One Leader, Two Hats
Richens’ joint role is a game-changer. It marks the first time a senior figure operates across both the NHS and city council. The goal? To deliver smoother, more joined-up care for Portsmouth residents. Traditionally separate, the NHS and social care systems will now edge towards real integration.
Dr Jim Hogan, NHS Portsmouth CCG’s clinical chief officer, explained:
“The time was right for the NHS and the city council to take a bold, but natural decision to combine these two roles. Health and social care will provide better services if fully integrated. Rob Watt worked hard to strengthen adult social care, and we thank him for his dedication. Innes is an excellent choice to continue this work as services come even closer together.”
Building on Partnerships
This fresh approach follows the departure of Rob Watt, the former head of adult social care, who took voluntary redundancy. His exit sparked talks on deeper collaboration between the city council and NHS teams.
Frontline workers are already joining forces to support Portsmouth’s people, especially after hospital stays. But there’s plenty more to be done, and Richens is ready for the challenge.
Local Leaders Back the Move
Councillor Luke Stubbs, Portsmouth City Council’s cabinet member for health and social care, said:
“We’re very pleased Innes is taking the joint role. He and Rob formed a strong partnership focused on improving services for our most vulnerable. This decision offers the best future for health and care in Portsmouth. We wish Rob well and sincerely thank him for his dedication. He’s been a cornerstone of adult social care here since the city council became a unitary authority.”
Richens’ Vision for Portsmouth
Innes Richens himself is fired up about the new role:
“It’s a real honour to take on this joint role. I believe the only way to support people properly in the future is by bringing NHS and social care services closer than ever before. Some work has started already, but now we face a huge task ahead—to plan and deliver real change to frontline services that benefit Portsmouth residents.”
