Kathy Henwood joins the Mental Welfare Commission Board

Today Kathy Henwood attended her first meeting as a Board member of the Mental Welfare Commission, replacing Safaa Baxter who has just finished her term.

Kathy currently works for Fife Council, as head of Education and Children’s Services, and Justice Services, and as chief social work officer. She has 35 years’ experience in social work, working across local authorities and the third sector, in Scotland and England.

Kathy has predominantly worked with children and families, though started her career working in mental health services and in residential care with older people. She has worked across child protection committees, been a guardian ad litem and an associate assessor in inspections as part of the Child Protection Reform programme. 

She has also been an associate lecturer for the Open University for over 15 years, teaching courses around leadership and management across health and social care. 

Kathy is a passionate advocate for people’s rights and works hard to ensure that the voice of experience informs all of her work and future approach.

Kathy’s appointment will be for four years, until 31 March 2027.