Election Produces Useful Mix for CDHB Leadership
Accolade for Clinical Psychologist
Richmond Fellowship has welcomed the election result for the Canterbury District Health Board and paid tribute to Dr
Olive Webb, Richmond’s Acting Clinical Director, who is among the successful contenders. Dr Webb was the second
highest-polling candidate.
“Olive has brought exceptional skill and experience to the District Health Board and we are delighted that she has been
so strongly supported by the voters,” said Richmond chief executive Dr Gerry Walmisley.
“The Canterbury District Health Board is the largest in the country and has huge responsibilities. Olive is widely
recognised for her expertise, particularly in the area of disability, and we know that the Board will benefit greatly
from her input.
Dr Walmisley said the voting had produced a well-rounded mix of individuals who should serve the region well.
However he said the total voter turnout, within only 108,000 valid votes received, was disappointing. The high number of
informal votes suggested there was more work to be done on the voting forms ahead of the next local body elections.
Richmond Fellowship is a major provider of community health and support services throughout New Zealand. The Fellowship
has developed specialist services for a range of purchasers including the Ministry of Health, Crown Public Health, Child
Youth and Family Service and District Health Boards. Services include support programmes for people with mental,
psychiatric or psychological illness, respite and emergency support, consumer based drop-in services, specialist youth
services and dual diagnosis services (including intellectual disability/mental illness).