By Pamela McGowan Health reporter

Last updated at 14:28, Friday, 19 October 2012

One of Cumbria’s most senior health managers has announced he is leaving to take up a new national post.

Stephen Dalton

Stephen Dalton is chief executive of the Cumbria Partnership, which runs all of the county’s community and mental health services – including the area’s cottage hospitals. He is leaving after securing a new post leading the national Mental Health Network.

His deputy Sarah Senior, who is also the trust’s finance director, will take over as acting chief executive from December 1, when he stands down.

Mr Dalton has been in the county for nine years, initially heading the north Cumbria mental health trust. It became the Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust in 2007 before taking over the county’s community health services from NHS Cumbria last April.

His will start his new role as chief executive of the Mental Health Network on January 1, working with the Government, regulators and others to promote the importance of good mental health and excellence in services nationally.

Cumbria Partnership chairman, Mike Taylor, announced the news to staff. He said: “His new role is of national importance.”

First published at 12:51, Friday, 19 October 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk