Dr Colm Owens Appointed Chief Medical Officer at Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust

Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust has announced that Dr Colm Owens, Consultant Psychiatrist, has been appointed as Chief Medical Officer (designate).

Colm, who will step into the role in January 2026, brings more than 15 years of clinical experience in psychiatry and 13 years in medical leadership roles, including the last four years at executive level. He is currently Medical Director of the NHS Devon Mental Health, Learning Disability and Neurodiversity Provider Collaborative.

Experience Across Communities

Colm’s career has spanned liaison, old age and general adult psychiatry, with work in both urban and rural communities. His leadership has focused on integration across services, professions, organisations and with the people who use them.

Chief Executive Debbie Richards welcomed the appointment, saying:

“Colm has a collaborative, inclusive approach having worked in community, inpatient and at a system level. He will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to our Trust for the benefit of colleagues, patients and communities.

He has a strong track record of innovations which will be instrumental to support our ambitions for the development of integrated neighbourhood teams, reducing out-of-area placements, and delivering sustainable, values-led care.”

Colm’s Vision for Cornwall

Speaking about joining Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Colm said:

“I was drawn to the Trust’s combined mental health and community services model and its commitment to delivering care rooted in local communities. My leadership has always focused on integration, not just between services, but across professional groups, organisations, and with people who use our services. I look forward to bringing these skills to my new role in Cornwall.”

Leadership Change in 2026

Colm will succeed Dr Adrian Flynn, who has held the Chief Medical Officer role for six years. Dr Flynn will return to a patient-focussed role as a consultant psychiatrist with the Trust.