About

National Head of Safeguarding for the NHS

Kenny Gibson, the National Head of Safeguarding for the NHS, stands at the forefront of driving transformative initiatives to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals within the healthcare system. With a career that began as a laundry assistant in 1980 at a mental health unit, Kenny's journey embodies the progression from a nursing assistant to a trained nurse and midwife, illustrating his dedication to the nursing profession. Throughout his distinguished career, Kenny has held various operational, management, and strategic roles in community and public health. Nursing has consistently been the heart of these roles, reflecting his unwavering commitment to patient care. Prior to assuming the role of the Head of Safeguarding for NHS England, Kenny served as the Head of Public Health Commissioning for London, where he contributed significantly to shaping public health policies and initiatives.

In his current role as the National Head of Safeguarding, Kenny oversees multiple portfolios, addressing critical issues such as abuse, exploitation, radicalisation, and violence. He is a national leader in initiatives such as Contextual Safeguarding, Trauma-Informed Care, Prevent in the NHS, and the Child Protection Information System. These efforts underscore his commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for all individuals within the healthcare system. Kenny's passion extends beyond administrative responsibilities; he actively engages in connecting with and listening to patients, carers, and health practitioners. This commitment is driven by a desire to enhance services and experiences within the NHS and empower individuals to prioritise their own well-being. As a thought leader and advocate for safeguarding, Kenny shares his insights and updates on Twitter, where he can be followed at @KennyGibsonNHS and @NHSSafeguarding. His dedication to safeguarding and improving the healthcare experience reflects a profound commitment to creating a safer and more compassionate NHS.