Independent Age, the older people’s charity has appointed Jo Cleary to be the next Chair of its Board of Trustees. Jo will take up the role formally at the AGM on 29th June 2017, succeeding Dame Diana Brittan, who is to step down from the post after eight years.
Jo Cleary has a wealth of experience in health and social care in both central and local government. She has worked as a strategic commissioner, provider and regulator, having been a Director with responsibility for adult social care in three councils, a senior civil servant in the Department of Health and an NHS Director. She is a former Chair of three national organisations: The College for Social Work, the National Skills Academy for Social Care and 4Children. Jo Cleary is currently a Specially Appointed Commissioner (Trustee) at the Royal Hospital Chelsea.
Commenting on her new role, Jo Cleary said:
“I’m honoured to succeed Dame Diana Brittan as Chair of Independent Age. Dame Diana’s outstanding leadership has helped steer the organisation through a period of transformation and growth. There has never been a time when an organisation like Independent Age is more needed. I’m passionate that older people must be recognised for their ongoing contribution to society and can continue to lead the lives they want to live as they get older. I’m delighted to be joining at the next phase of the charity’s development to build on the positive change that has already been achieved.”
Dame Diana Brittan, the outgoing Chair of Independent Age said:
”It has been a privilege to be Chair of Trustees at Independent Age for the last eight years. I am proud of the difference the charity makes to help older people remain independent and live life on their own terms. I am delighted to be handing over to Jo, whose insight and vast range of experience will be invaluable to the charity now and in the future.”
Janet Morrison, Chief Executive of Independent Age said:
“We are thrilled to welcome Jo as our new Chair of Trustees. Jo brings a wealth of experience and skills from health and social care that will be of great benefit to the organisation. We are looking forward to working with her closely as the charity continues to grow and we continue in our aim to help more older people than ever before.”