University Health & Social Care North Lanarkshire has appointed Joanne Jenkins as Director of Nursing, following a successful year serving as interim Director of Nursing.
Joanne has worked as a nurse for 35 years, starting her career at Stonehouse Hospital and has spent the last 21 years dedicated to nursing in the community.
A lifelong Lanarkshire resident, she has a deep understanding of local health needs and a commitment to delivering high quality services to North Lanarkshire’s communities.
As director of nursing, Joanne is dedicated to enhancing patient care and championing staff wellbeing. She is increasing the visibility of senior nurses, evolving and transforming nursing roles, and strengthening engagement with patients and staff.
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 carer 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.”
Joanne also praised the outstanding contributions of nurses working across mental health, learning disabilities and addictions. She is committed to building on the good work already being carried out, as well as the positive differences nurses are making for children and young people.
Her appointment has been warmly welcomed by Claire Rae, chief officer of University Health & Social Care North Lanarkshire, who 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.”
