Bradford District Care Trust’s new chairman has issued a pledge.

Mike Smith, who has been formally appointed to the role after five months in an acting capacity and four years as a non-executive director, said: “I am delighted to be taking up the role on a permanent basis.

“The NHS is going through a significant period of change and I am committed that throughout this time we will continue to live our values, uphold our quality promise and keep the individual at the centre of all that we do.

“This is a great organisation and I am immensely proud of the work our staff do and humbled by the way they approach supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our society.” Prior to joining the trust in 2008 Mr Smith held a number of senior management positions in the water industry, latterly director of human resources at Yorkshire Water.

He is also involved with voluntary organisations supporting people with learning disabilities.

Simon Large, the trust’s chief executive, said: “I am delighted to announce Mike Smith as our new chairman. His skills and experience will be invaluable to us over the coming years as we transform our organisation and work towards our vision to being recognised as one of the country’s leading providers of integrated community health care services.”

The trust provides social care and community and mental health services across the district.