Health Minister Mike Nesbitt has announced the appointment of three non-executive members to the Board of the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (the Social Care Council).
Colin Reid has been appointed as a Non-Executive (Registrant) Member, with Colm Donaghy and Frederick Smyth being appointed as Non-Executive (Stakeholder) Members. All three appointments commence on 1 April 2026 and will end on a date not later than 31 March 2030.
It was also announced that the tenure of the current Interim Chair of the Social Care Council Board Gerry Guckian will now continue until 31 August, 2026.
Tracy Reid, Chief Executive of the Social Care Council said:
“It is an exciting time to welcome four new members to the Social Care Council board.
“I look forward to working with them as we continue in the work of the Council, supporting, regulating and developing the social work and social care workforce over the coming years.”
Northern Ireland Social Care Council Non-Executive Member positions require a time commitment of a minimum of two days per month and attract a remuneration of £7,404 per annum.
These appointments are made in accordance with the Code of Practice issued by the Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland.
The announcement of the new appointments was made on the Department of Health website on 8 May 2026.