Rebecca Woodcock has been appointed chief operating officer (COO) of leading not-for-profit care operator Belong.

The COO will head up the dementia specialist's villages and home care services, including Belong Chester located on City Road.

Highly experienced, Rebecca has worked for the organisation for over 20 years, previously holding general manager and registered manager positions at the group's Atherton and Wigan villages.

"I am thrilled to be joining the leadership team of our wonderful organisation," said Rebecca Woodcock, chief operating officer at Belong.

"I pride myself on being a true 'Belong Champion' and working hard to promote our ethos of pushing the boundaries of dementia care for the people of Chester." 

During her tenure, Belong has attained numerous top accolades.

This includes LaingBuisson's Excellence in Retirement Housing, the HealthInvestor Seniors Housing Operator of the Year, and Best Health and Wellness Service for its holistic approach to dementia care. 

It also holds the Gold Investors in People accreditation, signifying commitment to its colleagues and cementing it as one of the country's top employers. 

Martin Rix, chief executive at Belong, added: "With a long and distinguished career history with us, she has consistently demonstrated her passion for our unique village model and the people that we support.

"She is also an exceptional and compassionate leader, and we are confident that she will add significant value in her new role."  

The news comes ahead of the opening of Belong Birkdale, next year. 

The ninth village in the group portfolio, its first in Merseyside, will add to its established sites across the North West and West Midlands, expanding its sector-leading support for older people living with dementia.