An organisation which brings together councils, charities and community groups with the NHS to improve care provision has appointed a new chair.

Marie Gabriel CBE has been announced as the new chair for north east London’s integrated care system (ICS).

The ICS system, introduced in 2016, sees the NHS collaborate with councils and other groups to take collective responsibility for managing resources, delivering NHS standards, and improving the health of residents.

London north east ICS covers Waltham Forest, Redbridge, Havering, Hackney, Newham, Tower Hamlets, and Barking and Dagenham.

To ensure independence in her new role, Marie, who was recently made a CBE in the Queen’s New Year Honours, will be stepping down as Chair of East London NHS Foundation Trust (ELFT) – a post she has held since October 2012.

Marie said: “As sad as I am to be stepping down as chair of ELFT, I'm also incredibly excited to be taking up this new role. It affords me the opportunity to work with communities across north east London to transform services and improve outcomes, and to widen my work with truly dedicated and talented colleagues, of whom ELFT will remain part."

NHS London regional director, Sir David Sloman, said: “It’s not just the NHS that helps to care for us and keep us well. Councils, charities and community groups also play a vital role in keeping Londoners healthy.

“These five outstanding leaders will help improve care for all Londoners by organising health and social care services that work best for patients – regardless of organisational boundaries.”

Ray Puddifoot, London Councils’ executive member for health and care, added: “London boroughs welcome these appointments, which show the NHS recognises the need to join up health and care and wider public services.

“This is an important step towards ensuring all Londoners have access to more seamless local services improving their health, care, and wellbeing.”

By April 2021, ICSs will cover the whole country.