NHS England has appointed its first medical director for mental health and neurodiversity, Dr Adrian James.
The role will support the transformation of services for people with mental health needs, autism, learning disabilities and those who are neurodiverse.
Dr Adrian previously held the position of president of the Royal College of Psychiatrists from 2020-2023. He is also currently a board member of the NHS Race and Health Observatory and a member of the NHS Assembly.
He was also the former first medical director of Devon Partnership NHS Trust.
Professor Stephen Powis, NHS England national medical director, said:‘This is the first role of its kind in NHS England and demonstrates our ongoing commitment both to strong clinical leadership in general, and specifically within mental health and neurodiversity.
‘It is excellent news for people with mental health needs, autism, learning disability and those who are neurodiverse as we continue to transform services and improve outcomes.’
Claire Murdoch, NHS England national mental health director, added: ‘I was thrilled to join Professor Powis in appointing Adrian, who will be a first-class clinical leader across our important programmes and a really impressive addition to the medical leadership at NHS England.
‘I very much welcome this appointment and look forward to working with Adrian very closely together in the future.’
Dr James said: ‘I am delighted to be joining the leadership team at NHS England. Much has been achieved in the world of mental health and neurodiversity and I am looking forward to working with the medical directorate, Claire and her team, patients, the public, staff and the vibrant charity sector to further improve outcomes, the experience of care and timely access to services.’
