Message from Peter Wightman, Managing Director, West Essex CCG

Good afternoon everyone

On my first day as the new Managing Director for West Essex CCG I want to say hello and share some thoughts with you.

Firstly, thank you for all your hard work over the last few months during the COVID-19 pandemic. Your support has allowed us to continue providing the best services we can to patients, residents and our partners across west Essex. We have a lot to be proud of with regards to our response so far, including the changes we have had to make to work differently, sometimes in new work areas and the support you’ve given to frontline staff. While the COVID-19 cases are reducing, our focus is to restore services across the system, make sure everyone is safe, comfortable and productive wherever it is they are working, and also work with Essex County Council colleagues to prepare for the possibility of a second outbreak.

Secondly, I am pleased to confirm that with immediate effect and on an interim basis, Anurita Rohilla is taking the lead for primary care commissioning including medicines, primary care contracting and transformation. Geoff Roberts will continue to lead the estates and digital agenda and report in to me. From Monday, Sharon Church will pick up my Executive Assistant support and Kate Brown will work for Paula Clugston as primary care co-ordinator including primary care workforce projects.

Thirdly, Jane Halpin is keen to conclude the next stages of the transition to joint management for the three CCGs and ICS in a timely manner. I understand this may create a feeling of uncertainty but please be assured that Jane and I will keep you all up-to-date as this unfolds through the staff briefings, through the weekly staff newsletter and by direct email where appropriate.

Finally, please feel able to contact me directly if you have any questions or concerns and I will answer as best I can or link you with someone who can. There is much to do and I very much look forward to working with you in my new role.

Peter Wightman
Managing Director