'Outstanding' CCG chief appointed to turn around struggling neighbour

Emma Latimer, chief officer of Hull CCG, is to take up the turnaround role at North Lincolnshire CCG from 2 October.

North Lincolnshire is one of the areas in the capped expenditure process and the CCG was given legal directions by NHS England last month after it was rated inadequate.

HSJ understands staff at both organisations were told about Ms Latimer’s appointment by NHS England on Wednesday.

Margaret Sanderson, chair of North Lincolnshire CCG, said: “This will further support the work of the CCG governing body and CCG staff as they continue to tackle the challenges the organisation faces to ensure our local people receive safe, quality and sustainable health care.”

The CCG is currently forecasting a cumulative deficit of £4m by the end of 2017-18, with its main provider, Northern Lincolnshire and Goole Foundation Trust, in both quality and financial special measures.

The trust, forecasting a £23m deficit this year, is also part of the CEP and was “buddied” with East Lancashire Hospitals Trust as part of its recovery.

Hull CCG was one of only 21 groups to be rated outstanding by NHS England in July.

Ms Latimer recently announced her decision to step down as accountable officer for Humber, Coast and Vale sustainability and transformation partnership and will remain chief officer of Hull while carrying out her new role.

She is expected to oversee a financial recovery plan for the CCG as well as review its governance arrangements.

Ms Latimer said: “Having worked in this locality as the STP lead, I have seen lots of challenges and opportunities that I will work through with partners to support the CCG to move from [legal] directions.”