HEALTH chiefs are taking a new approach to human resources (HR) and have appointed an associate director.

Stephen Dean has been appointed by the Craven, Harrogate and Rural District Primary Care Trust.

The trust, which employs about 800 staff, used to contract out its human resources support. While some aspects will continue to be contracted out, the trust hopes the new approach will give a more responsive and focused service.

Mr Dean has worked in NHS human resources since 1987. His most recent post was head of HR - Scientific Services for the National Blood Service, with responsibility for the HR service for about 1,500 laboratory and scientific staff across England