NEW NATIONAL DIRECTOR TO BOOST WORKPLACE HEALTH.

(From Government News Network (Was Hermes-Government Press Releases))

] DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH 25 April 2005 NEW NATIONAL DIRECTOR TO BOOST WORKPLACE HEALTH

Health, work and well-being - Caring for the future

Professor Dame Carol Black, one of the nation's top doctors and President of the Royal College of Physicians, was today named as the Government's first ever National Director for Health and Work. She will spearhead initiatives promoting and improving health in the workplace, ensuring that people with health conditions and disabilities are supported to enter, return to and continue in work.

Her appointment was made by the Prime Minister in a major speech to mark the 'Small Change, Big Difference' public health initiative. The role is part of the radical Health, Work and Well-being Strategy - launched last year by the Department of Health, the Department for Work and Pensions and the Health and Safety Executive - and illustrates the Government's commitment to working to improve health and tackle inequalities.

Health minister Rosie Winterton said:

"I am delighted to appoint Carol Black …