The Trust’s Members’ Council have appointed Martin Howell as the new Chairman for OBMH, starting on the 1st April when the current Chair, Janet Godden, comes to the end of her term of office.

Martin, who was a Non-executive Director of South Central Strategic Health Authority and a Commercial Director for Corus Group plc and its predecessor organisation, brings a background in business to the Trust. This complements his recent work within the local healthcare community.

He was installed as Master Cutler of The Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire for the year 2008/09. Until recently he was Deputy Chairman of the Governors of the Sheffield Academies, who work to rejuvenate and improve results in two inner city schools, and a Board Member of Thames Valley Crimestoppers.

Speaking of his appointment, Martin says, “I am delighted to be appointed as Chairman of OBMH. The organisation has come a long way in recent years and I look forward to building on this strong foundation and becoming part of their future successes.

“The field of mental health is one I am very drawn to. It is clear that it brings its own challenges, and some specialist areas of healthcare, such as eating disorders and mental health care for young people, and I look forward to being part of the work which helps improve people’s lives.”

Julie Waldron, Chief Executive, said, “This is a very exciting time for us and I would like to welcome Martin in his new role as Chairman. His experience in business and healthcare will be most welcome to us in helping to further improve and develop our services.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Janet for her dedication during the last four years as Chair for OBMH. We have achieved a lot during her time such as achieving Foundation Trust status. We wish her all the best for the future.”

Martin has already spent time at OBMH, meeting staff and patients, as part of his induction.

This is the first time the Members’ Council has appointed a Chair for OBMH. The Members’ Council is made up of elected and nominated Governors who represent constituencies including Trust staff, patients, their carers, partner organisations and the public in both Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire.