Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust (CNTW) is pleased to announce that Darren Best has been appointed as the Trust’s new chair.
Darren will take up the role in October, taking over from current chair Ken Jarrold CBE.
CNTW is one of the largest mental health and disability trusts in the country, employing more than 9,000 staff and serving a population of approximately 2.3 million people.
Darren joined the Trust as a Non-Executive Director in 2019. Prior to this, he worked as a police officer for 30 years. His last job in policing was as Deputy Chief at Northumbria Police.
He says it was during his time in the police where his own journey with mental health began. The tragic death of a friend and colleague made him more aware of his mental health which has helped in decision-making on how services can be developed and delivered.
On his new role, Darren said: “I’m very much looking forward to working as the new chair.
“I am passionate about the work CNTW does and I’m proud to be a part of it. I feel genuinely honoured to be working with people who do amazing things every day.”
Outside of work, he enjoys making the most of the great outdoors in the North East and spending time with his wife, their three grown-up children and dog Bobby.
Outgoing chair Ken Jarrold has been in post since 2018.
He said: “I am absolutely delighted that the Council of Governors have appointed Darren as my successor. It was a privilege to be involved in his appointment as a Non-Executive Director and it has been a pleasure to work with him. I know that Darren will lead through challenging times and encourage leadership throughout CNTW.”