2 April 2007

A new era for health and social care in the Southern area

The first public meeting of the new Southern Health and Social Care Trust took place today (2 April 2007) at Craigavon Area Hospital.

Speaking at the meeting, Trust Chairman Anne Balmer said it marked the beginning of a new era for health and care in the Southern area.

“The four Trusts in this area have now merged to form the new Southern Trust. By working more closely together as one organisation we will be able to forge stronger relationships between hospital and community services and across geographical boundaries. Our aim will be to deliver safe, high quality health and social care which is responsive to the people and communities that use our services.”

Mrs Balmer continued: “I would like to thank the former Trust Chairs, Chief Executives and Boards for their outstanding leadership and commitment. I believe that we can build on the success they have achieved and move forward with confidence towards a new more streamlined service.”

Chief Executive Colm Donaghy added: “Together we face a challenging agenda. Our task is to provide safe, modern services that meet demanding targets within the resources available to us. I believe that by working more closely together and ensuring that patients and clients remain the central focus of all we do, we can rise to this challenge.”