The minister responsible for innovation and technology in the health sector has stepped down to “pursue new ventures”.
Baroness Nicola Blackwood, who was appointed a Lord and minister of innovation in January 2019, previously served as a Conservative MP for Oxford West and Abingdon from 2010 until 2017.
She announced on social media on 14 February, following a cabinet reshuffle, that she had decided to step down.
Grateful to be offered chance to stay as Minister of Innovation @DHSCgovuk, it’s been a privilege to serve under 2 PMs & great Health Secretary @MattHancock, but now is the right time for me to pursue new ventures & perhaps *even get a glimpse of my family… #remembermedarling?
— Nicola Blackwood (@nicolablackwood) February 14, 2020
A number of senior NHS IT figures responded to Baroness Blackwood, including NHSX CEO, Matthew Gould who said it had been “brilliant” working with her.
“We will miss your leadership, insights and kindness,” he added.
NHSX CCIO, Simon Eccles, said it had been a “privilege” working with Baroness Blackwood while NHS Digital CEO, Sarah Wilkinson, wished her all the best and said she would be missed.
It’s been brilliant working with you @nicolablackwood. We will miss your leadership, insight and kindness. Thank you, good luck with the next chapter, and please don’t leave the #digitalhealth scene.
— Matthew Gould (@matthewsgould) February 15, 2020
Whilst good news for the family, that’s sad news for us. It’s been a privilege working with you to support innovation and technology in health and care; and a real pleasure working with you personally.
— Simon Eccles (@NHSCCIO) February 15, 2020
We will miss you Nicola. All the very best for a future of fabulous business adventures and lovely family time.
— Sarah Wilkinson (@SarahFWilkinson) February 15, 2020
Baroness Blackwood’s responsibilities include ‘life sciences policy and industry engagement, industrial strategy and NHS innovation’ as well as ‘data, digital and technology, including cyber security’ in the healthcare sector.
She had previously served as Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the then-called Department of Health from July 2016 until June 2017.