John Devapriam
Tell us a bit about your background
I have over 20 years’ experience working in the National Health Service, 15 of which have been in services for people with a learning disability. I am currently the Executive Medical Director at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust. I am also a Medical Member of the First Tier Tribunal for Mental Health and the Project Executive and Lead Editor for developing online resources on learning disability and mental health at MindEd, Royal College of Psychiatry.
Previously, I was the National Professional Advisor for Learning Disability at the Care Quality Commission and Chaired the Quality Network, and held the position of Academic Secretary for the Faculty of Learning Disability at Royal College of Psychiatry.
My interest areas are in systems leadership, mentoring and population health management. I am also an active clinician researcher and have contributed to several book chapters, peer reviewed publications and national reports.
What made you decide to become a Trustee for Hft?
Having worked in the NHS all my career, an opportunity to make a difference to the lives of people with learning disabilities and their families from a community care perspective is very appealing to me. When I was invited to consider becoming a Trustee for Hft, its values aligned with mine and its vision and strategic plans inspired me, so I am therefore looking forward to contributing to the organisation.