Post by Charlotte Kume-Holland

As I make a return to the world of health, I wanted to take the opportunity to say thank you and acknowledge what a privilege it’s been to be a part of what has definitely been an eventful few years. Whilst I knew coming into Major Events and delivery would bring new experiences and learnings, I could never have imagined just how many. From the honour of being part of delivering the late Queen’s state funeral and HMK’s coronation, to witnessing the hugely impressive and most often unseen work of The Royal Household colleagues during my palace secondment, to learning incident command ropes with the College of Policing and advancing HMG excellence in major event delivery - it really has been quite the journey and one I’ll never forget. The thing I have loved and been most struck by is the hugely diverse community of partners across sectors and systems, who plan and deliver in such an impressive, safe and secure way. It’s a fine example of public service. There is much to be taken from the collaboration I’ve seen in the past couple of years, and I’m deeply grateful to those I’ve learnt from, the leadership I’ve observed and of course the brilliant individuals and teams I’ve had the privilege of working with and leading. Whilst sad to leave, I’m thrilled to be returning to Department of Health and Social Care as Deputy Director Mental Health Strategy & Delivery, at a time of such challenge but also huge opportunity in health and mission driven government. Very excited to reconnect with wonderful former colleagues, partner with new ones and always happy to chat about the role so please do reach out!