STORY
The UK Government has announced the appointment of Samantha Jones as the new Permanent Secretary at the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). Jones, who began her career as a nurse in the NHS, brings extensive experience from both frontline healthcare and senior management roles.
Her career includes serving as a hospital Chief Executive, leading the New Models of Care programme at NHS England, and heading one of England’s largest primary care providers. In 2021, she was an expert advisor to the Prime Minister on NHS Transformation and Social Care, and later served as interim Permanent Secretary and Chief Operating Officer for 10 Downing Street. Jones will succeed Sir Chris Wormald, who left DHSC in December 2024 to become Cabinet Secretary. Her appointment comes at a pivotal time as the government implements its “Plan for Change” which includes reintegrating NHS England into the department to streamline operations and reduce bureaucracy.
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting welcomed the appointment, stating:
“Samantha brings a wealth of experience from the frontline of healthcare as a general and paediatric nurse—she knows what it is like to be working on wards and will translate that expertise to her work across the department.”
Jones expressed her commitment to the role, saying:
“It is an absolute privilege to be appointed Permanent Secretary at DHSC, working with colleagues across health and social care to support the Government’s Plan for Change and deliver a rebuilt NHS, fit for the future.”