Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust has appointed Beth Swanson as Interim Chief Nurse. Beth will take up the role on 20 October.
Beth joins from North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, which is part of the University Hospitals Tees Group, where she is Director of Nursing and Deputy Group Chief Nurse. She brings more than 30 years of nursing experience and a strong record in improving quality, safety and workforce resilience.
In her current role, Beth works closely with executive colleagues to oversee quality, safety, performance and financial sustainability. She has led measurable improvements in infection prevention and patient safety, relaunched ward accreditation, and introduced a ‘Grow Our Own’ programme to strengthen the nursing workforce and reduce agency use.
Nationally, Beth, until recently, was the Chair and Nurse Advisor for the National Audit of Dementia, a member of the Chief Nursing Officer’s Excellence Advisory Forum and has presented work internationally.
Beth said: “I’m looking forward to joining the Trust and working with colleagues across all our services at this important time. My focus will be on quality, safety and assurance, while supporting the professional voice of nursing, midwifery and AHP teams. I believe in visible, compassionate leadership and building trust through clear communication and partnership.”
Acting Chief Executive Sean Fenwick said: “Beth brings a wealth of experience and a clear focus on quality, assurance and professional leadership. Her appointment will provide continuity and support for our teams during this period of transition.”
Beth takes over from Gill Findley, who has moved on to a new joint role as Professor with the University of Cumbria and Chief Nurse at North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust.