Duncan Burton was appointed as the Chief Nursing Officer for England, the first man to hold this position in the post’s 80-year history.
Burton has over 25 years of experience as a nurse and previously served as the deputy chief nurse, focusing on maternity, workforce, and children’s issues.
He started his career in respiratory medicine and neurology before taking on various senior roles in different hospitals.
Burton aims to work with nursing and midwifery colleagues to improve patient care, nation’s health, grow the workforce, and inspire future professionals.
Health officials and leaders congratulated Burton on his appointment, praising his experience in boosting nursing numbers and overseas recruitment.
For the first time in its 80-year history, a man has been appointed Chief Nursing Officer for England. Duncan Burton, who has over 25 years of experience as a nurse and most recently served as deputy chief nurse, will now lead the profession as the Government’s top advisor on nursing matters. He takes over from Dame Ruth May, who was known for her outspoken remarks during the pandemic. Burton’s extensive background includes roles in respiratory medicine and neurology, as well as leadership positions in various healthcare organizations.
Burton’s appointment comes after his successful efforts to boost overseas recruitment and increase nursing numbers by 50,000, as credited by Amanda Pritchard, chief executive of NHS England. Health Secretary Wes Streeting congratulated Burton on his new role and highlighted the importance of nurses in shaping the future of the NHS. With around nine in ten nurses in the NHS being women, Burton’s appointment marks a significant milestone in the history of the Chief Nursing Officer position for England. Meanwhile, Sir Chris Whitty continues to serve as the chief medical officer.
