New director of nursing appointed in North Lanarkshire
She brings with her 35 years of nursing experience.
Read more: Nurses in Glasgow could go on strike over pay dispute
Joanne began her career at Stonehouse Hospital and has spent the past 21 years working in community nursing.
A lifelong resident of Lanarkshire, she is known for her commitment to high-quality care and patient-centred services.
Joanne said: "I want to thank all our nurses for their continued dedication and hard work in integrating health and social care services.
"Their efforts are making a real, positive difference to the lives of people in North Lanarkshire.
"Their dedication and compassion are inspiring, and I am excited to support and build on the great work already being done.
"My ultimate priority is always high-quality patient care and making sure the patient and their carers are always fully involved in their care plan and the care they receive.
"Where possible, it's important to help people stay at home and be treated in their own communities when this is something they want.
"I also want every nurse to feel supported, valued, and empowered to deliver the best possible care to patients.
"My focus is on making senior nursing leadership more visible, creating clear pathways for career progression, and ensuring our staff always feel heard.
"These are all key steps to ensure we are always building on our good work and embracing innovation to truly benefit all North Lanarkshire's communities."
Read more: New Lanarkshire programme helps parents create healthier, smoke-free homes
She also praised the contributions of nurses working in mental health, learning disabilities, and addictions, as well as those supporting children and young people.
Claire Rae, chief officer of University Health and Social Care [[North Lanarkshire]], said: "Joanne has shown strong and inspiring leadership and compassion during her time as interim director of nursing.
"Her appointment shows a continued commitment to inclusive leadership, compassionate care, and an environment where both patients and staff feel valued and empowered.
"Joanne's dedication to staff and her passion for community nursing have made a real difference, and I'm confident she will continue to drive forward improvements in care."
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