The People Behind the Partnership: Richard Scothon
Date published:
Ahead of our March Newsletter we caught up with Professor Richard Scothon, chairman of Chamber Partner member, County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust (CDDFT).
Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your role, and what drives you in your work?
Hello, I’m Professor Richard Scothon.
In my personal life, I’m a husband and dad; I love team sports and physical exercise, and I like hearing about and engaging with people’s cultures and faiths. In my work life, I’m fortunate enough to work with 8,500 colleagues in CDDFT who support over two million patient contacts and impact North East people’s lives, every year. At the heart of all this is our CDDFT Charity, who are dedicated to supporting County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust by funding enhancements that go beyond standard NHS provision. From investing in cutting-edge equipment to improving patient environments and staff wellbeing, our work directly impacts healthcare in the region.
As Chairman of the Trust Group, which includes the Charity, I am passionate about making a tangible difference within the communities we serve. Through the Charity’s work this means ensuring that every donation and partnership translates into meaningful change. What drives us is the knowledge that our efforts contribute to better patient outcomes, staff support and stronger, healthier communities.
How important is collaboration in driving regional success, and how has the Chamber helped you forge connections, influence policy, or support regional investment?
Collaboration is at the heart of regional success. Strong partnerships between businesses, charities, and public services create lasting benefits – not just for individual organisations, but for the entire North East economy and community.
Being a member of the North East Chamber of Commerce has enabled us to connect with influential local businesses, opening doors to fundraising, sponsorship, and corporate social responsibility opportunities. Through the Chamber, we are building relationships which we hope will help us amplify our impact.
What role do organisations like yours play in retaining talent and making the region a great place to live and work?
CDDFT Charity plays a key role in making the North East a healthier, more supportive place to live and work. By investing in staff wellbeing initiatives, training, and healthcare innovation, we help attract and retain talent in our CDDFT workforce. As Chairman of the CDDFT Group I am advocating for a well-supported healthcare system which means that professionals want to stay in the region, benefiting both businesses and communities.
Beyond healthcare, our partnerships with businesses encourage a culture of social responsibility, where organisations can actively connect and give back to their communities, strengthening the North East’s appeal as a great place to work and live.
What are the biggest opportunities for people-driven business growth in the North East, and how do you see your organisation and its team contributing?
The North East has a wealth of opportunities for people-driven business growth, particularly in healthcare, social impact, and corporate social responsibility (CSR). Businesses that invest in their people – through wellbeing initiatives, partnerships with charities, and community engagement – see stronger staff retention, brand reputation, and economic resilience.
CDDFT Charity is committed to facilitating these opportunities. We provide businesses with meaningful ways to connect and engage with their workforce and communities, whether through our corporate partnerships, fundraising initiatives or sponsorship opportunities.
What advice would you give to other businesses looking to grow through collaboration and regional engagement?
Get involved, build partnerships, and think beyond profit. Businesses that engage with local charities and community initiatives enhance their reputation, strengthen their workforce and contribute to a more prosperous region.
Partnering with CDDFT Charity offers a unique opportunity to support local healthcare, improve staff wellbeing and build healthier communities together. Align your brand with a cause that resonates across the communities you are part of and establish that meaningful connection. Whether through fundraising, volunteering, or sponsorship, collaboration is a powerful tool for growth – not just for businesses, but for entire communities.
By working together, we can ensure that the North East remains a fantastic place to live, work, and thrive.