The move, which follows the appointment of the chair in common in Autumn 2024, signals a shared commitment to strengthen joint working.

Under the proposals the trusts would remain as separate statutory organisations, while seeking to appoint a shared leadership across both organisations to oversee strategy and service delivery.

The proposals are in the early stages of development and the trusts are working with NHS England and local partners. 

Andrew Morgan, chair in common, said: ‘Appointing a shared chief executive is an exciting opportunity for both organisations to accelerate the good work already happening and explore ways of further integrating services to benefit our patients.'