New Chief Inspector for Care and Social Services Inspectorate for Wales appointed

The Welsh Government Permanent Secretary Sir Derek Jones has appointed Gillian Baranski as the new Chief Inspector of the Care and Social Services Inspectorate for Wales (CSSIW).

Currently Chief Executive of CAFCASS Cymru, Ms Baranksi will take over from outgoing Chief Inspector Imelda Richardson who will retire at the end of the month. She will take up the post on October 10th.

Announcing the appointment, the Permanent Secretary said:

“I am delighted to appoint Gillian as Chief Inspector for CSSIW. She has an excellent track record and is the right person to steer CSSIW through its next chapter. She is joining as new legislation in Wales provides the opportunity to continue to improve the quality and stability of social care in Wales.

“I would also like to thank Imelda for the commitment and expertise she has brought to the role. She has overseen the development of a progressive regulator and inspectorate that is both inclusive and collaborative and make a positive difference to people’s lives. I wish her well for her retirement.”

Gillian Baranski said:

“I am delighted to be appointed as CSSIW’s Chief Inspector. Social care services play a vital role in our society in caring for and protecting vulnerable people. I am looking forward to this new challenge to help support the improvement of wider social care services across Wales.”

Retiring Chief Inspector Imelda Richardson said:

“I would like to warmly welcome Gillian to CSSIW in her new role as Chief Inspector, and look forward to continued success for the organisation in the coming years.

She is taking on an organisation where staff and partners work together with citizens, service providers, sector organisations, and other inspectorates to jointly improve care services. It has been a privilege to work with and alongside such committed people and professionals at all levels.”