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The former Director for Public Health for Wiltshire, who served during the Russian nerve agent attacks in Salisbury in 2018, has been appointed to the role in Gwent.

Professor Tracy Daszkiewicz, who has more than 25 years experience working in the health and social care sector, will join Aneurin Bevan University Health Board on April 3.

She takes over from Dr Sarah Aitken, who is retiring.

The Director for Public Health is responsible for leading on a variety of key health promotion programmes in Gwent, including mental health and wellbeing, anti-smoking and healthy weight campaigns, as well as being responsible for protecting the health of residents.

Speaking of her appointment, Prof Daszkiewicz said: “My passion is for reducing vulnerability and tackling inequalities.

“The impact of low income, job instability, poor housing and isolation has on our health is immeasurable.

“My ambition for Gwent is for healthier, safer places, access to excellent education, warm homes, prosperity, and community connectedness.”

She continued: “In short, I believe all children should have the best start in life through to adulthood where everyone has a job, a home and a friend.

“Through our work with both the public health team and together with our partners across Gwent, I look forward to supporting the people of Gwent to live well and live longer.” 

Nicola Prygodzicz, who is the health board’s chief executive, said the Director for Public Health role “is vital in supporting our communities across Gwent to make good choices about their health, for both themselves and for their families”.

She added: “Tracy will also lead the health protection response to any public health emergencies when needed.”