For the past 7 years, after running our local branch of Age UK, I have been Chair of Healthwatch Brighton and Hove, the statutory independent watchdog on health and social care. I have participated and raised issues at strategy meetings at BSUH and carried out patient studies: including long waits in A&E, delays in cancer and planned treatments and people’s experiences of end of life care.
By constructively challenging the status quo and suggesting improvements I believe I have significantly contributed to patient care. Covid has dramatically changed health care: remote consultations, long delays in the treatment of non-urgent illness with enormous pressure on front-line staff. It has however provided an opportunity for the citizens of our city, whom I do my best to represent at influential meetings (HOSC, HWB), to voice their views on the future.
I have working experience in both health and social care. I understand how the whole system could and should work for the benefit of all patients. Having managed big organisations, I understand the importance of supporting staff, improving their job satisfaction. Their wellbeing is a priority for me as it directly contributes to good patient care.
If I am appointed I want be able to continue to have an impact on the shape of future health provision in our city. These are challenging but exciting times with our new hospital and a new enlarged Trust and I would relish the chance to contribute my knowledge, experience and energy.