We are pleased to announce Andreas Kirsch’s appointment as the new co-chair of the South West London Integrated Care Partnership (ICP).
Andreas brings a wealth of local government experience, having served as the leader of Kingston Council since October 2021 and a councillor for six years. As Kingston’s leader, he oversees budget management, partnerships with the NHS and police, voluntary sector commissioning, and emergency planning. He also serves as the council’s portfolio holder for heritage and culture. Andreas represents the Chessington South and Malden Rushett ward. He previously taught Japanese Studies at SOAS University of London and served as a Chessington School governor.
He succeeds Ruth Dombey, former Sutton Council leader, and will co-chair the ICP alongside Mike Bell. Together, they will provide joint leadership for Kingston, Richmond, Sutton, Merton, Croydon and Wandsworth.
The Integrated Care Partnership (ICP) is a joint committee that brings together the NHS South West London and local authorities with a range of local partners, including local hospitals and several other public and voluntary sector partners, to improve health, social care, and public health for south-west Londoners.
Mike said: “Andreas is a fantastic choice for this role, and I’m excited to work with him as we push forward with our ambitions for joint-working to benefit the health and well-being of south west Londoners. We face significant challenges — from reducing health inequalities to addressing mental health demand and shifting focus from treatment to prevention, so we can better support people to have healthier lives. Andreas’s expertise in local government, transforming services, and strengthening partnerships will be invaluable as we collaborate with our partners to achieve our goals.”
Andreas added: “I’m thrilled to be taking on this important role and look forward to working with colleagues across the NHS, local authorities, primary care and voluntary organisations to build on the foundation that Mike and Ruth have laid. South West London has a strong tradition partnership working together across NHS, councils, voluntary groups and community organisations like Healthwatch to improve health and care.”
“I will be working hard with Mike to build on that to deliver better, more joined-up health and care services so everyone in our local communities gets the best start in life, and then receives the very best support to live a long and healthy one.