New council cabinet member for social care appointed

A new cabinet member for social care has been appointed at Caerphilly County Borough Council.

Cllr Teresa Heron succeeds her Labour colleague Cllr Elaine Forehead in the role.

Cllr Heron said she was “eager to make a start and deliver further positive progress across our social care services”.

The Cefn Forest and Pengam ward councillor also serves as the local authority’s Armed Forces champion.

“I very much share this council’s commitment to providing quality care and support for some of the most vulnerable people in our community, and this role is instrumental in ensuring that we deliver on this promise,” she added.

Van ward representative Cllr Forehead leaves the social care cabinet role she has held since 2022, in a planned decision she said would also allow her to return to university.

“Following discussion with my family I decided to leave earlier to spend time with my grandchildren,” said Cllr Forehead.

“I am proud of the achievements made by the service throughout my time as cabinet member for social care, and am confident Teresa is a safe and knowledgeable pair of hands to continue the excellent work undertaken by each employee in social services.

“I would like to express my thanks to all the staff who supported me throughout my time in this role.”

Caerphilly Council also extended its thanks to Cllr Forehead for her time in the cabinet.

Cllr Jamie Pritchard, the leader of the local authority, said he was “delighted” to announce the new appointment.

“Teresa has worked extremely hard for the county borough in her role as Armed Forces Champion and has given a great amount of effort to her community over recent years,” he said.

“I look forward to working with Teresa in her new role going forward.”