Update on development of Dartford and Medway hospital Group

Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust and Medway NHS Foundation Trust are in the early stages of developing a new hospital Group to strengthen services for patients and improve long‑term sustainability.

John Goulston, Chair, Medway NHS Foundation Trust, said: “The creation of the Group is a major step forward at a time when the NHS in Kent and Medway is undergoing significant change, alongside considerable operational and financial pressures. In this context, both trusts are committed to progressing carefully, with sufficient support in place, to ensure that we get this right for patients and staff.”

Jackie Craissati, Chair, Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust, said: “We must balance the leadership capacity required to address immediate priorities – such as improving patient care and reducing costs – while also laying the foundations needed to realise the full benefits of the Group.”

Since announcing the Group, both organisations have kept all aspects of its development under close review, particularly leadership capacity, as the scale of the operational and financial challenges facing the trusts over the coming year has become clearer.

Having considered this, the trusts have decided that it is right, for the time being, to maintain two Chief Executives.

John Goulston, added: “This will ensure that both trusts have the dedicated leadership focus needed to address our immediate priorities – treating patients sooner, improving outcomes, transforming our culture, and strengthening our finances.”

Jonathan Wade will continue to lead both organisations until 31 March, after which he will focus fully on his role as Chief Executive of Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust. In the meantime, Medway will begin the process of appointing a substantive Chief Executive and Siobhan Callanan will continue as Interim Deputy Chief Executive.

Jonathan will oversee a smooth transition and continue to work closely with colleagues at Medway NHS Foundation Trust, including the incoming Chief Executive, to build on the progress achieved over the past year and support the ongoing development of the Group.

To underpin this work, both Boards have agreed to establish a joint committee that will consider the most appropriate approach, pace and structure for the Group’s development. This will be supported by an experienced Programme Director.

As opportunities arise, the trusts will progress Group leadership appointments and expand areas of closer working across services where this will support improvement, resilience and better outcomes for patients.

Jackie Craissati, said: “Both trusts remain confident that the development of the Group presents significant opportunities for innovation and improvement. We will continue to engage openly as this work progresses, listening to feedback and drawing on learning from other NHS groups to strengthen services now and for the future.”