What's happened 

Gareth Evans has been appointed Chief Allied Health Professions Adviser for Wales. He will begin the role in August 2026.

In a LinkedIn post announcing his appointment, Gareth said: 

"This is both a huge honour and a responsibility that I take on with real commitment and pride. Allied Health Professionals play a vital role in improving outcomes, reducing inequalities and transforming services across health and care. 

"I am a fervent champion for the contribution of our professions and supporting the workforce to innovate, collaborate and lead change. 

"I would like to thank colleagues, partners and mentors who have supported me throughout my career. I look forward to working with teams across Wales and beyond to strengthen the impact of AHPs for the people and communities we serve." 

Why this matters to members 

Chief Allied Health Professions roles are the senior professional advisers for the allied health professions within each of the UK's four nations. 

Gareth will play an important role in promoting the contribution of all allied health professions, influencing policy and supporting the development of the workforce across Wales. 

Before taking up the national role, Gareth held several senior leadership positions, including Integrated Health Community Director at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, where he worked for more than 11 years. Before that, he was Head of Podiatry, Head of Therapy Services and Chair of the Healthcare Professionals Forum. 

What happens next 

Gareth will formally begin his appointment in August 2026. 

Links and references 

LinkedIn: Gareth Evans 

Correction

Correction [06.08.2026]: We have updated this article to correct an earlier error. It previously stated that Gareth Evans would be staying on in his role in Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board; this has now been corrected. Gareth will not be staying in this role. We are happy to correct the record.