Sandwell NHS trust boss takes break due to ill health

Toby Lewis, the chief executive of Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, has stepped away from the organisation temporarily.

The trust runs Sandwell General and Birmingham City hospitals and will also operate the new Midland Metropolitan University Hospital, due to open in Smethwick in 2022.

Mr Lewis, who has led the trust since 2013, was at the forefront of the effort the rescue the Midland Met project following the collapse of Carillion which has contributed to it being way behind schedule.

He has also been responsible for leading the trust's response to the coronavirus crisis and ensuring its hospitals have been able to cope.

He has been working until recent weeks and provided updates to the board during June for the upcoming meeting next week.

Medical director David Carruthers becomes acting chief executive in Mr Lewis' absence.

Details on how long Mr Lewis is expected to be away from the trust and the nature of his illness have not been disclosed.

A spokeswoman said: “The trust’s chief executive, Toby Lewis, is currently away from work due to ill-health. The trust’s medical director, Dr David Carruthers, is acting chief executive in his absence.”