Dr Dinesh Bhugra, who has served as Chair of the Mental Health Foundation for three years, has been appointed President of the Foundation , replacing Sir William Utting.
Dr Bhugra, who is Professor of Mental Health and Cultural Diversity and Honorary Consultant at the Maudsley, said: ‘I am delighted to be taking up the position of President at what is undoubtedly both an exciting and challenging time in the field of mental health. I look forward to building on our existing contacts with my counterparts both in the UK and abroad-particularly with the World Health Organisation and World Psychiatric Association as well as other organisations-including statutory and patient/family organisations.
“I will continue to provide input into the strategic direction of the Foundation, believing that we must move towards human rights based parity for mental health with physical health. Achieving mental health for everyone across their lifespan is a major goal and we need to do everything we can towards this end.’
Keith Leslie, a partner at Deloite LLP and an expert in organisation and leadership, has been appointed as Chair of the Mental Health Foundation, following a successful stint as Treasurer. As past chair of Build Africa, a leading development charity, he has particular experience in lifting the performance of charities.
Mr Leslie said: ‘Mental health has always been a neglected area within the NHS but it is rising in public, clinical and political consciousness: this means this is very much the Foundation’s moment of opportunity to promote innovation and lived experience in mental wellbeing. I look forward to working with President Dr Dinesh Bhugra and Chief Executive Jenny Edwards CBE to ensure that the Foundation’s voice is heard.