A NEW chair of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) has been appointed.

Dyfed Edwards, who has been in post as interim chair since February 2023, was formally appointed to the post by Wales' Health Minister, Eluned Morgan MS, on Tuesday, January 30.

Dyfed said: "Health, and the health and care system touches all our lives at different times and is a key part of the social fabric that sustains our communities in North Wales.

"We know that the health board has been underperforming and falling short in terms of delivering world-class public services for our communities but in the last year, I have met many incredible staff and seen some fantastic services.

"I feel privileged to be permanently joining the 19,000 strong team at Betsi and I know that they share mine and the board’s ambition to make lasting improvements in the health and wellbeing of population of North Wales and in the provision of their healthcare services.

“We are starting to see some good progress and I am looking forward to continuing the journey to building a more effective organisation.”

Dyfed, who has significant leadership experience in the public sector, including the NHS, will take on the role of chair for a period of four years.

Ms Morgan said: "Following an open public appointment process and in accordance with the Governance Code on Public Appointments, I am delighted to announce the appointment of a permanent chair to BCUHB. 

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"The chair of the board is Dyfed Edwards. Dyfed will continue to bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the board and will continue to build upon the excellent foundations he has put in place over the last 11 months.

"Recruitment is underway for a further four independent members, these appointments will be announced in February.

"The full complement of board members will ensure the board has the appropriate skills and expertise to lead the organisation through Special Measures."