Home care providers’ association the Homecare Association has appointed Ruby Peacock as policy, practice and innovation director, starting on 9 May.

Peacock is an experienced policy and public affairs professional, with experience in the charity, public and private sectors. She has led campaigns and developed long-term strategies to influence political and public opinion on a diverse range of topics, including social care, welfare, taxation and pensions. She is experienced at leading and managing multidisciplinary teams and working on cross-organisational projects.

Peacock is currently head of policy and public affairs at Carers UK. Before that, she was deputy head of public affairs at the Federation of Small Businesses. Earlier in her career, Peacock worked in policy and public affairs at The Children’s Society and at London councils.

Homecare Association chief executive, Dr Jane Townson said: “Ruby’s background and experience in policy and public affairs, in both the social care and small business arenas, will be valuable for our members and complements existing skills within our organisation. Ruby’s enthusiasm for our mission to ensure that all of us can live well at home and flourish in our communities shines through and we will value the fresh perspectives and ideas she brings.”

Peacock added: “I am excited by this opportunity to utilise my skills and experience to influence the social care system, something I am so passionate about. Having personally experienced the challenges of accessing social care for my grandmother last year, I am even more motivated to make a difference. I am really looking forward to working with a great team to influence policy and practice to ensure that people’s needs are met and that homecare services receive the recognition they deserve.”

Compass Executives advised on the appointment.