First Medical Director for Mental Health and Neurodiversity appointed by NHS
Dr Adrian James was appointed on Monday, 3 June, by NHS England to a new role aimed at improving services for people with mental health issues, autism, learning disabilities, and other neurodiverse conditions.
Dr James, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists from 2020 to 2023, is also on the NHS Race and Health Observatory board, a member of the NHS Assembly, and was the first medical director of Devon Partnership NHS Trust.
As President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, Dr James guided the college through the Covid-19 pandemic and implemented initiatives to enhance workforce wellbeing and promote equality, diversity, and inclusion.
During the pandemic, Dr James gathered evidence on the risks of Covid-19 for those with serious mental illnesses or learning disabilities, which helped prioritise these groups for vaccination.
One of his main goals at the college was to achieve parity of esteem, ensuring mental health is treated as equally important as physical health.
Professor Stephen Powis, NHS England National Medical Director, said: “This new role highlights our ongoing commitment to strong clinical leadership, especially in mental health and neurodiversity.
“This is great news for people with mental health needs, autism, learning disabilities, and neurodiverse conditions as we continue to transform and improve services.”
Claire Murdoch, NHS England National Mental Health Director, said: “I was delighted to help appoint Adrian. He will be an excellent clinical leader for our programmes and a valuable addition to NHS England’s medical leadership.
“I am very pleased with this appointment and look forward to working closely with Adrian.”
Dr Adrian James, NHS England’s First Medical Director for Mental Health and Neurodiversity, said: “I am thrilled to join the NHS England leadership team. Much has been achieved in mental health and neurodiversity, and I look forward to working with the medical directorate, Claire and her team, patients, the public, staff, and the charity sector to further improve outcomes, care experiences, and timely access to services.”