The Department for Work and Pensions has confirmed that Professor David Strain will take up the role of DWP Chief Medical Advisor from the end of August. The appointment was announced in a DWP press release, with Professor Strain joining from the University of Exeter, the NHS, and the Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST), where he has served as Thematic Research Lead for Health for the past two years.
New Chief Medical Advisor to provide clinical leadership
In his new position, Professor Strain will provide clinical leadership and expert advice to support the Department’s work, helping to ensure that clinical evidence and expertise inform policy and service delivery, the DWP said. He will succeed Dr Gail Allsopp in the role.
Professor Strain has held a number of senior leadership positions, including Chair of the British Medical Association Board of Science and Medical Advisor to Action for ME, according to the DWP.
Commitment to long-term health conditions
Professor Strain said: “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.”
The announcement comes on the same day the DWP confirmed that a Youth Guarantee scheme had started in the East Midlands, with placements for benefits claimants aged 18 to 24 who are out of work.
Background and next steps
Professor Strain’s appointment is effective from the end of August, as confirmed by the DWP. His background includes roles at the University of Exeter, the NHS, and POST, where he served as Thematic Research Lead for Health for the last two years. The DWP has not yet announced further details about his specific priorities or any immediate changes to benefits policy.
