As the dark nights approach Pioneering Care Partnership (PCP) are celebrating this part of the year with a bright new appointment at its office in Newton Aycliffe. Paul Stafford has joined PCP as a Senior Programme Manager building on his background in further education and the commercial sector.  Carol Gaskarth, PCP’s Chief Executive, said: “We have made significant progress this year with the support of our enthusiastic, dedicated staff and volunteer team, including opening additional sites and new projects and services. I’m delighted to welcome Paul to the team and with his support I have no doubt we will be in a really strong position with a team of extremely talented people.  It’s a little while away but plans are afoot for our 20th year anniversary and Paul will play a key role in planning a wide range of events and activities for the community.” Paul will support Sunderland Healthwatch, County Durham Healthwatch, Social Prescribing County Durham, and also explore the opportunities for health, wellbeing and learning opportunities surrounding the continued growth of the Pioneering Care Centre.Paul said: “Joining PCP is a huge opportunity and I am looking forward to working with the team and supporting the work and development of provision for our communities.  I am keen to grow the use of the Pioneering Care Centre, it already has a wealth of services including the hydrotherapy pool and the coffee shop but I would welcome contact from organisations who may be interested in supporting our delivery themes of lifestyle and health, mental wellbeing, independence and choice, employability and learning or empowerment and voice.” Paul can be contacted by email paul.stafford@pcp.uk.net if you are interested in organising a visit or discussing joint working opportunities. For more information on any of the projects mentioned visit www.pcp.uk.net email enquiries@pcp.uk.net  or call 01325 321234