South Ayrshire Health & Social Care Partnership welcomes new Chief Social Work Officer

[31 May 2022]

South Ayrshire Health & Social Care Partnership (HSCP) are delighted to announce the appointment of Gary Hoey as the new Chief Social Work Officer for South Ayrshire.

Gary has worked in Social Work and Education for nearly 30 years, predominately within South Ayrshire. In his previous role as Senior Manager for Children's Health and Justice Services he was responsible for Fostering and Adoption Services, Young People's Support and Transition, Intensive Family Support and our Children's Houses.

Gary said, "I am delighted to accept the role of Chief Social Work and both humbled and excited to drive forward the Social Work profession within South Ayrshire."

"We are a profession built upon values, ethics and a motivation to help those in South Ayrshire who need our support. By listening to those we serve we can build supports and services attune and in harmony with their lives."

Gary has also represented South Ayrshire on a number of national forums such as GIRFEC, the Historic Abuse Practice Network, the Children and Young People's Mental Health Task Force and the Child Protection National Learning and Development Group. He has led on several projects designed to meet the spirit of the Promise and the ambition of the South Ayrshire HSCP Strategic Plan, ensuring that children and young people in South Ayrshire start well, live well and age well.

Gary added, "Our practitioners have proven in recent times that they can rise to the challenge of adversity, and I wish to ensure that they have the skills, knowledge and support to equip them thrive as we move forward."

Tim Eltringham, Director of Health and Social Care said, "The Chief Social Work Officer role is crucial role within the Partnership's senior team. We are delighted to have been able appoint Gary who has such a wealth of knowledge in this area. Gary has strong roots in the South Ayrshire community and I look forward to seeing him help lead the direction of the Partnership."