Dr Mike Richmond will become chair of Barnsley Hospital alongside his existing chair post in Rotherham, which he has held since January 2024. This will be on an interim basis of 12 months.

He replaces Sheena McDonnell, who has been chair over the past three years, who joins Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust.

Dr Richard Jenkins, joint chief executive of The Rotherham and Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trusts, said: ‘We believe the appointment of Mike as chair of both trusts will strengthen the existing partnership while maintaining each organisation's independence, local accountability and focus.'

In addition, Chris Thickett will become the joint chief finance officer across both trusts. Thickett has worked as director of finance at Barnsley Hospital since April 2019.