20th July 2004

News Release

New Director of Fitness to Practise at the Health Professions Council

The Health Professions Council has announced that Kelly Johnson has been appointed as the new Director of Fitness to Practise.

Kelly Johnson already has experience of the HPC's fitness to practise processes, having worked in the department as a case manager for over a year. She has also been acting Director of Fitness to Practise since the position became vacant She managed hearings in the changeover from the CPSM to HPC, and co-ordinated the training of panel members, who include registered health professionals and members of the public. Kelly Johnson graduated from Swansea University after reading history and politics, and has a Masters in historical studies.

She is looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead, "Our legislation has given us a modern framework to operate an open and fair system in order to protect the public. I want to build on the department's strengths and ensure that we continue to improve.

"I hope to develop and improve existing processes, and to explore the possibility of starting a programme of witness support. I am also looking forward to working with the Communications department to produce more clear, accessible information about the fitness to practise process and how it works."

Marc Seale, the Chief Executive and Registrar of HPC, said, "I am delighted to welcome Kelly to the management team. The fitness to practise process is one of our key functions, and a vital part of protecting the public. With Kelly leading the department, I am confident that we can go from strength to strength and set new standards for fairness, transparency and accountability."

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. Pictures of Kelly Johnson are available on request.