Richard John Toogood 1949-2022

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Richard John Toogood, Clinical Psychologist, at the age of 72. He is survived by his wife Dot and adult children Nick and Lyndsey.

Richard was born in Wordsley/Stourbridge and grew up in this West Midlands area. He completed his undergraduate degree at Aston University, and then went on to do his masters in clinical psychology at Leeds University.

In 1983 the family returned to The Midlands when Richard was offered a post at Cross Street Clinic in Dudley. Here he carved out his career, initially working with children, but eventually moving into management and becoming District Psychologist for the Dudley area. He remained there until his retirement in 2007.

Richard was a clinical psychologist who showed a lot of professional dedication and leadership in the psychology profession, both locally and nationally as well as in the NHS.

He encouraged and practised leadership, quality, and support in the profession. Professionally he was very active. With a colleague, he ran numerous management and leadership courses for younger Psychologists and helped develop the Division of Clinical Psychology's Clinical Leadership Framework. He had a significant input in the local Psychology training course at Birmingham University.

At one time or another he was the chair of the Regional Committee of Clinical Psychologists, the Regional Course Training Committee, the Regional Supervisors Committee, as well as holding the Chair of the local DCP branch, and contributing to the National DCP and BPS systems.

As District Clinical Psychologist in Dudley, he joined with the three adjacent district heads in the Black Country to organise free training days for clinicians across the area sharing knowledge and skills to facilitate CPD and mutual support.

At one point he also had some management input in the Wolverhampton Psychology Department, where he was well liked and appreciated for steering that department through turbulent times.

After retirement he and Dot travelled the world, particularly enjoying the southern states of America and its music. He also pursued a host of other hobbies, including watching football, gardening, cooking, learning Italian, and volunteering for the Canal Boat Trust. He was also interested in both world and local history.

Those who knew Richard as a friend or work colleague will remember him as a kind compassionate man. He will be sorely missed, not only by his family but also by his friends and ex-colleagues, many of whose careers he influenced significantly.

Dr Pam Skinner and Dr Abdul Pansari

Work colleagues and friends