The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has appointed Professor David Strain as its new Chief Medical Advisor, with the role beginning at the end of August.
The appointment will see Professor Strain provide medical leadership and advice across the department, with the DWP saying his work will help bring clinical evidence into policy decisions and service delivery for people who use its support.
New Adviser Brings NHS And Research Experience To DWP Role
According to Birmingham Live, Professor Strain joins the DWP after working with the University of Exeter, the NHS and the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST), where he served as Thematic Research Lead for Health.
He has also held senior positions including Chair of the British Medical Association Board of Science and Medical Advisor to Action for ME.
The DWP said Professor Strain will help strengthen clinical expertise within the department and support work involving people with long-term health conditions.
Professor Strain Sets Out His Focus For The New Position
Professor Strain said he plans to use his background in medical research and healthcare policy to help the DWP improve the way evidence is applied when supporting people with health-related challenges. His role will involve working with clinical professionals across the department to strengthen medical expertise and ensure decisions are informed by research and practical experience.
Speaking about his appointment, Professor Strain highlighted his focus on turning scientific evidence into meaningful changes for people who rely on public services, particularly those managing long-term health conditions.
“I am delighted to be joining DWP as Chief Medical Advisor.
“Throughout my career I have been passionate about turning evidence into practical improvements for people, particularly those living with long-term health conditions.
“I look forward to working with colleagues across the Department and its clinical community to strengthen the contribution clinical professionals make to DWP’s work and to the people we serve.”
His appointment brings experience from healthcare research, medical organisations and advisory roles into the department’s clinical leadership team. The DWP said his expertise will support the department’s work by providing medical insight across areas that affect claimants and people with ongoing health conditions.
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DWP Says Appointment Will Support Future Policy Work
The department said the new adviser will provide clinical guidance to help inform its approach to benefits services and support systems.
Professor Strain will succeed Dr Gail Allsopp in the Chief Medical Advisor position after building a career focused on healthcare research, medical policy and long-term conditions.
The appointment comes as the DWP also confirmed the start of a Youth Guarantee scheme in the East Midlands, offering placements for unemployed benefits claimants aged 18 to 24.
Professor David Strain is due to begin his DWP role at the end of August, according to the department.
