Falkirk health and social care board makes two new appointments

Carol Ann Harrower and Ian Dickson bring lived-experience and third sector expertise to Falkirk’s Integration Joint Board.

Following targeted recruitment by Falkirk and Clackmannanshire Carers Centre, and CVS Falkirk, the Integration Joint Board (IJB) has appointed two new members during its meeting today, Friday 18 November.

The appointments have been made to expand the range of expertise and experience informing decisions made by the Board, which has responsibility for planning, resourcing and operational oversight of Falkirk’s community-based health and social care services.

Dr Michele McClung, Chair, Falkirk Integration Joint Board said: “It is a pleasure to welcome Carol Ann and Ian to the Board. Their personal and professional expertise will enhance the understanding of the Board and inform person-centred decisions about local services”

“I also wish to thank our previous and outgoing representatives, Victoria McRae, Morven Mack, and Frank Donelly, who brought invaluable insight and have contributed their time, expertise, and passion to the Board.”

As well as informing decisions and discussion on the IJB, the new representatives will feedback and represent the work of the Board to their respective networks – including the Falkirk Carers’ Voices and third sector meetings.

Carol Ann Harrower, Carers Representative, commented: “Anyone can become a carer, or even take on a caring role without realising they are a carer. It is important to me that people with experience of care have a voice within health and social care services, and I hope to make a difference for carers and their loved ones.”

Ian Dickson, Third Sector Representative, added: “Falkirk’s third sector is fortunate to have many dedicated, motivated professionals delivering invaluable services to the community. I am proud to represent the sector and hope that I can demonstrate the vital part our efforts play within Falkirk’s health and social care services”.

Carol Ann provides care for her daughter, who was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder in 2021, and has had first-hand experience of the impact of Alzheimer’s upon family life through her mother-in-law’s diagnosis.

In her professional life, Carol Ann works as a HR Manager for a Scottish charity, and hopes her personal and work experience will be beneficial in her new role on the Board.

Appointed as CEO of Falkirk’s Mental Health Association (FDAMH) in 2021, Ian also represents the third sector on the Falkirk Community Planning Partnership’s mental health group. In his previous role as Operations Manager, he played an integral part in ensuring community services remained available throughout the pandemic.

The duo have been appointed to their posts for up to three years, joining members from Falkirk Council, NHS Forth Valley, and voices from service users, carers, third sector organisations, and staff on the Board.

New substitute representatives have also been appointed to the board, with Gillian Sherlock appointed as service user substitute representative, and Lorraine Love of Forth Valley’s Royal Voluntary Service appointed as third sector substitute representative.