Worst-performing large NHS trust gets new boss

A new boss has been announced to take over an NHS hospital trust, which was ranked as the worst-performing large trust in England.

Adam Sewell-Jones has been announced as the new chief executive at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, taking over the role from Dawn Scrafield.

The trust oversees hospitals at sites including Basildon, Broomfield and Southend. In November, it was rated as "inadequate" by inspectors from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) after it found "persistent" safety failures and a poor behavioural culture.

On his appointment, he said: "Being my local trust, it matters to me both as a patient and due to having so many friends and former colleagues working there."

Sewell-Jones has been the executive of East and North Hertfordshire Teaching NHS Trust for the past four years.

On his departure from the trust based in Stevenage, he said: "The progress our teams have made is inspiring – improving how quickly patients are seen, strengthening the quality of care, and embracing continuous improvement through the East and North Herts Production System.

"I know the trust will continue striving to deliver the very best for our patients and communities, and I look forward to following its continued progress."

Anita Day, trust chair, said: "Under his leadership, we have strengthened our foundations, become more forward-looking, and developed a more systematic approach to improvement.

"He has helped position the trust for future success, and we are grateful for his dedication. Adam will be very much missed, and we wish him every success in his new role."

The trust said arrangements for his successor will be announced in "due course".

Sewell-Jones previously worked in Essex at Basildon and Thurrock University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust as director of finance and continuous improvement, chief operating officer and deputy chief executive.

On social media, he said: "Absolutely delighted to have been appointed to be CEO at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust.

"When the time comes, I'll leave East and North Hertfordshire Teaching NHS Trust with a heavy heart, great memories and loads of learning."

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