YoungMinds appoints Sue Berelowitz as chair

Berelowitz, who is deputy children's commissioner at the Office of the Children's Commissioner for England will succeed current chair Dr Mike Shooter when he steps down in September.

On accepting the role, Berelowitz voiced concerns about the challenge of ensuring young people don’t lose out on high-quality services because of cuts being made across the sector. She said: "It is going to be more important than ever to ensure that children and young people who need support from mental health services are able to access good-quality provision in a timely way."

Commenting on her appointment, Berelowitz said: "I have the highest regard for YoungMinds’ work, particularly their proven commitment to engaging with young people with experience of mental health services and their determination to destigmatise mental health."

Berelowitz previously spent six years at West Sussex County Council as director of business development for adults' and children’s services. She joined the Office of the Children’s Commissioner as chief executive and deputy children’s commissioner in October 2008.

Sarah Brennan, chief executive at YoungMinds, welcomed the appointment: "With Sue’s breadth of experience and passion, I have every confidence that she will lead YoungMinds in achieving further milestones to promote and protect good mental health for all children and young people."