Lorraine Nelson, CDDFT's executive director of operations, who has worked across both organisations during her 30-year NHS career, will lead the development of the strategic alliance. STSFT's executive director of finance, Hayley Wardle, will also support both trusts.

Chief executive of South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, Ken Bremner, said: ‘We have welcomed the open dialogue with CDDFT's new leadership team over the past few months, and we both recognise that there is great potential for our organisations to work together.

‘Our focus, through the strategic alliance, will be on where we can bring the most benefit for patients, families, and staff. As we do this, we want to remain rooted in the communities we each serve and make sure we involve people fully in our work.'

Steve Russell, chief executive of County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, said: ‘This strategic alliance with STSFT is an important and positive step for both organisations. For CDDFT, it supports our continued improvement journey and our focus on delivering safe, high-quality care for the communities we serve now and into the future.'