CEO at scandal-hit health board quits
THE chief executive of Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board has stepped down from her position.
Allison Williams has been on sickness absence since June 19 but the health board confirmed yesterday afternoon that she would not return to her post. Professor Marcus Longley, chairman of Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB said Ms Williams notified the Board that she will be stepping down from her position on August 20.
He said: “On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Allison for her dedication to the organisation over the past 10 years and wish her well for the future.”
Councillor Andrew Morgan, leader of the Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has welcomed the announcement, calling it the “right decision.”
Ms Williams’ permanent replacement has not yet been announced, but Cllr Morgan hopes Dr Sharon Hopkins, the deputy chief executive of Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, who has been acting as chief executive will be appointed.
Ms Williams, who has been in charge of the health board since 2011, has been heavily criticised for her part in the failings at maternity wards of the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Llantrisant and Prince Charles Hospital in Merthyr Tydfil.
A scathing independent investigation by the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) and Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists found dozens of serious incidents – including stillbirths and neonatal deaths – went unreported.
The health board’s maternity services are now in special measures and the board is receiving targeted support from the Welsh Government.
Announcing Ms Williams’ departure, Professor Marcus Longley said: “Having graduated as a nurse in 1989, Allison has had a very successful 30 year career in the NHS as a clinician, teacher and manager.
“When health boards were created in 2009, she joined Cwm Taf Health Board first as Director of Primary, Community and Mental Health taking up her post as Chief Executive in March 2011.
“She has played a key role in securing university status for the organisation; establishing the academic centre at Keir Hardie University Health Park to support the local training of medical students; and delivering the recent boundary change to establish Cwm Taf Morgannwg UHB.
“She has a demonstrable track record of strong engagement of clincians, staff, trade unions and partners and delivery of significant change that has led to the transformation of services and the NHS estate in the area.”
Andrew RT Davies, South Wales Central AM, said Ms Williams’ departure has come as no surprise.
He said: “While you cannot question the years of dedicate service Ms Williams has given to the NHS, questions regarding her significant leadership role at the health board remain.
“Mothers and families received dreadful treatment over a prolonged period and they deserve answers, so too the staff who were denied adequate support and leadership during that time.”