Jess Slater announced as new CEO of Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough

Jess brings 19 years of dedicated experience in the voluntary sector, joining Healthwatch from Northamptonshire Older Persons where she has led on delivering a diverse range of services to the public. 

Notably, Jess has played a pivotal role in a collaborative effort within the voluntary sector, effecting substantial transformations in governance and culture within the North Northamptonshire Integrated Care System (ICS). Working in partnership with local authorities and health services, her leadership within the ICS has integrated voluntary sector leaders into innovative operational frameworks. 

In her most recent role, Jess chaired a Community Wellbeing Forum in the locality, and represented the interests of the voluntary sector and residents at both North Northants ICS Place Delivery Board and on the Countywide Population Health Board.

Commenting on her appointment, Jess said: "I look forward to working with Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Their invaluable contributions have been pivotal in shaping services within the county, and I aim to further enhance upon their remarkable achievements. 

“Through integrated partnerships with healthcare providers, dedicated staff, volunteers, and our communities, we possess the collective influence to foster a future where health and social care services are not merely dispensed, but co-created with empathy, understanding, and genuine collaboration. It is a profound privilege to be entrusted with the opportunity to serve the vibrant communities of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough."

Stewart Francis, Chair of Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough said: “We are excited that Jess has accepted this opportunity and everyone at Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is looking forward to working with her. 

“Her leadership qualities and considerable experience of working within the health and care system shine through. The Board and I have every confidence that with Jess at the helm we can move forward with renewed purpose to achieve even more for the users of the NHS and Social Care services that we represent.”