Norfolk and Suffolk's troubled mental health trust has appointed its new chief executive - who is coming out of retirement to take the role.

Caroline Donovan will lead the Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust for the next year after being named interim CEO of the organisation.

It comes less than a year after she retired from the same role at the Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust - amid a row with local health bosses over funding.

Her appointment comes after Stuart Richardson became the fifth permanent chief executive to leave the embattled trust since its inception just 11 years ago.

Ms Donovan will begin the role on October 23, having agreed to lead the trust for 12 months, after which a permanent chief will be appointed.

READ MORE: What next for NSFT after chief executive's exit?

Eastern Daily Press:

She  said: "This is a really exciting opportunity to lead NSFT.

"I am committed to listening to and working with staff, service users, their carers and families and partners as we continue to build on the improvements already under way across the trust."

Zoe Billingham, chairman of NSFT, said: "I am delighted to confirm Caroline's appointment.

"She brings vast experience of quality improvement, transformation and leadership to our trust, which is critical as we continue to work towards consistently delivering safe, excellent care to all those who need us."

During her three years at the Lancashire trust, Ms Donovan helped increase the number of inpatient beds and open a new rehabilitation hospital. 

However, the trust did face fierce criticism over its crisis services, which in 2020 were rated as inadequate. Its overall CQC rating requires improvements.

She previously also ran the North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust - which was rated outstanding under her leadership.

"Tracey Bleakley, chief executive of NHS Norfolk and Waveney, said: "Caroline has a strong track record of working with staff at all levels to bring about cultural change.

"We look forward to working with Caroline and colleagues at NSFT in the year ahead to continue our important work to truly transform mental health services."