Council appoints new health boss

Dr Judith Hooper left the post in November last year and now Rachel Spencer-Henshall has been recommended as her replacement.

Richard Parry, the council’s director for commissioning in public health and adult social care, said: “My congratulations go to Rachel, who is highly experienced in leading public health work for the NHS and local government.

“We had a very high standard of applicants apply and I would like to thank them for their interest in this role, which is very important to the local community.

“All councils have a legal duty to appoint a director of public health.

“The work of our public health team is crucial in supporting local communities as it covers health improvement, public health care and health protection.

“It also promotes behaviour change, helping people to stay healthier for longer, and champions the needs of our vulnerable residents.

“The leadership of public health pulls together a range of services and there is close partnership working with our colleagues in the NHS.

“I am very grateful to Andrew Furber, director of public health at Wakefield Council, for his support to Kirklees Council during this interim period since Dr Judith Hooper retired from the council.”