Mind announces new Chief Executive

Posted Tuesday 21 February 2006

Mind today welcomes Paul Farmer as its new Chief Executive, starting in May 2006, during the charity's 60th anniversary year (April 2006-March 2007). Currently Director of Public Affairs for Rethink and Chair of the Mental Health Alliance since 2001, Paul brings a wealth of mental health knowledge and experience to his new post.

At Rethink, Paul has been the lead role for all public-facing work, overseeing campaigns, fundraising, research, user and carer involvement and the National Advice Service. His impressive record in striving for appropriate mental health legislation and much-needed services, at both the Alliance and Rethink, will enhance Mind's vital campaigning work on the key mental health issues of today. His work to increase service-user and carer involvement will be invaluable to Mind's drive to ensure that the voice of the one in four people who experience mental health problems is listened to.

Paul has been Director of Public Affairs at Rethink since 1997. He is co-author of acclaimed publications on reducing stigma and discrimination, and was Communications Manager for the Samaritans (1994-1997). He is also a trustee for the Directory of Social Change, a campaigning voluntary organisation that provides the sector with training and publications.

Speaking today Paul Farmer said: "I am delighted to be joining Mind at this important time for mental health. We have many challenges to face together. I am looking forward to working with everyone across the Mind networks, and in the broader mental health community, to highlight the importance of putting service users at the heart of all we do." 

David Henry, Chair of Mind's Council of Management, said: "I am very happy to welcome Paul Farmer as the Chief Executive of Mind. We look forward to Paul's enthusiasm, experience and knowledge of the mental health sector. Paul is committed to change contributing to the continued progression of Mind's objectives."

Cliff Prior, Chief Executive of Rethink, said: "Paul has done an exceptional job for Rethink and for people affected by severe mental illness. I look forward to working closely with him as Chief Executive of Mind. We know how much more we can do to help people affected by mental illness when we work in strong partnerships on the key issues, such as the Mental Health Bill."

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