Governor elections candidate profiles
Mrs Carol Bull
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : Because I will work hard to be an effective voice for patients and a critical friend to the hospital.
Why do you want to be a governor? : Having been a partner governor for 3 years I would like to continue to be of service to the hospital.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? :
Previous employments – staff relationships, administration, project management, budget preparation.
As District Councillor – Speaking up for residents.
As previous governor - the knowledge I have gained of the hospital.
As a patient, wife, mother - the experience of care at WSFT
Are you a member of a political party? : Yes
If you have answered yes, please let us know which one : Conservative
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mr Ian Campbell MBE
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : Age brings more use out of the health service and external interest in both business and community might be valuable
Why do you want to be a governor? : I am, perhaps, too old but still active and health issues grow in importance; I feel I should be prepared to contribute
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : Current treasurer of one village charity and trustee of another. Past chairman of Suffolk Acre ( now CAS). Past director of pig breeding company and National Fallen Stock Co. now retired with more time available
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mr Steve Cannon
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : I have lived/worked in East Anglia since 1986. I am a retired chartered electrical Engineer. I volunteer at WSH
Why do you want to be a governor? : I want to improve the service offered and support the top team. The hospital is a vital service to the community and as such I want to participate in its development.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : As a retired Chartered Electrical I have managed many projects.In addition I am a good team worker. Man-management is a core skill of mine that I have exercised over many years.
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Dr Anna Conochie
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : I’m committed to using my skills
from 35 years as an NHS psychologist to help shape and support service improvement.
Why do you want to be a governor? : I care deeply about the health service. I want to facilitate public engagement by listening and representing views concerning local health provision, using my professional skills to enhance planning/ service delivery, advocating for members and community which WSFT is accountable.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : Experience of NHS service planning, provision and governance at primary, secondary and tertiary levels. Skills in teamwork and staff training, liaison, negotiation, critical thinking and problem solving. Project management from conception through implementation to evaluation.
Are you a member of a political party? : Yes
If you have answered yes, please let us know which one : Labour
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mrs Val Dutton
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : With a wealth of NHS experience as an employee and patient I understand the importance of good patient care.
Why do you want to be a governor? : Having recently retired after a long career in the NHS and at the Trust I am passionate about the patient experience and want to be a voice for the local community to influence the best possible care for the patients.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : I have an in-depth understanding of how the trust works, how the services are delivered and as a strong communicator I would use this experience
and knowledge to engage with the leadership team and the local community to influence change.
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Ms Sarah Hanratty
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : I am a passionate NHS volunteer and communications professional and will promote local residents’ and patients’ views to the Trust.
Why do you want to be a governor? : I am a Suffolk resident and service user, immensely proud
of the NHS. I volunteered throughout the pandemic as a Covid-19 vaccination marshall. I would like
to help make the Trust as effective as possible in meeting local needs.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : I am a communications professional with extensive management and board-level experience in the not-for-profit sector. I would like to use these
skills to represent local people in the operation and direction of the Trust.
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mrs Helen Harlow
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : To bring forward the perspective of the general public surrounding the ever changing health service provision within my surrounding area.
Why do you want to be a governor? : I was impressed by the service I received at West Suffolk
Hospital. By becoming a governor, I hope, would enable me to bring forward public interests and
promote good service to the public and staff within an ever changing NHS.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? :
Prior to retirement, during my career, my employment covered supporting-
Adult and Young persons with Mental and Physical Disabilities.
Elderly and Sheltered Housing.
Training for Nurses, ODPs and Midwifery through simulation.
Support with training in Manual Handling and BLS.
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Miss Elizabeth Hodder
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. :
- I listen
- I'm an effective advocate
- I grasp nettles
- I appreciate that no coin has only one side to it
Why do you want to be a governor? : WSH is at a critical point: a new hospital in the planning; national threats to the NHS. As an end-user, I have experienced the best and the worst sides of the WSH. I want WSH to show its best.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? :
- 35 years' experience as a litigation Solicitor advocating for clients
- 30 years' experience as an employer
- a lifelong desire to see change for the better not for the sake of change
- no nonsense hands-on approach
- empathy
- realism
Are you a member of a political party? : Yes
If you have answered yes, please let us know which one : The Conservatives
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mr Robin William Howe
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : After 6 years as a Public
Governor I would like the opportunity to complete my final 3 years
Why do you want to be a governor? : I should like to continue to help the hospital provide excellent
care for the community it serves. I should also like to help it work towards its new site with all the
challenges and opportunities for this exciting project.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : My last 6 years as a Governor combined with my previous roles as Magistrate, Councillor and N.H.S. employee have given me a wide range of skills. My Diploma in Management Studies supports my ability to relate to Senior Leaders.
Are you a member of a political party? : Yes
If you have answered yes, please let us know which one : Labour
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mr Gary Lambert
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : Having the patients coming first, better understanding of how our Hospital works, good communication between staff, patients,.
Why do you want to be a governor? : Have always been interested in how our Hospital works, patients, staff, always been a caring person.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : Always been a very understanding person,
calmness, caring , helpful, interested in other people's concerns,.
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mr Ben Lord
As a professional, dynamic individual, I'm committed to enhancing my support in improving healthcare across West Suffolk.
Why do you want to be a governor? : During my first term, I have enjoyed working as Chair of Engagement and as Deputy Lead Governor which I hope to continue. I'm incredibly passionate in supporting WSH become a local centre of healthcare excellence through our new hospital.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : Having served on most of the Governor sub-committees, as well as bringing continuity as a Governor, I'm increasingly recognised for skills in finance, management, communication and engagement in business and local community roles including as
Chairman of Ixworth Parish Council.
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mr Gordon McKay
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : I have lived in Bury for 59 years and feel I know the area and the people well.
Why do you want to be a governor? : I was a volunteer in the hospital for nearly 10 years and
feel I am familiar with the running of the hospital. Having lived in France for a few years I am also
familiar with the French Health System.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : I was an industrial chemist for most if my
career sorting out problems on the factory floor and dealing with staff. I was also involved with St Edmundsbury Newstalk for 40 years helping the blind and partially sighted.
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mr Tom Murray
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : Past experience as town cllr, interest in civic duty, grateful patient. Retired, I have time to work together with others.
Why do you want to be a governor? : I feel that I can add a certain, experience that could help our
hospital move into the exciting new phase of the new buildings for our hospital. I'm a good listener,
fair, unbiased, work with others, have my own mind.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : Former town cllr, current trustee the Newbury community center, member of the Guildhall Feoffment, experienced in press, publicity and promotion. Retired photographer, good speaker, great listener. Unbiased although occasionally outspoken ,very pro active, not a fence sitter.
Are you a member of a political party? : Yes
If you have answered yes, please let us know which one : conservative
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mrs Jayne Neal
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : An experienced,
dependable Governor, I am keen to continue representing the interests of patients, carers and
families in our community.
Why do you want to be a governor? : I remain strongly committed to helping shape how our Trust delivers safe, high quality care. In particular, I would welcome the opportunity to reflect patient views on the development of the new hospital and associated health care facilities.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : I have good listening and observational skills, along with a sound understanding of the complexities involved in delivering health and social care.
Through personal experience I am confident in speaking up on behalf of others to highlight their concerns.
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mr Adrian Osbourne
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : I feel very deeply for our Communties and its People. I want our Health Services accessible and ‘fit for purpose’
Why do you want to be a governor? : I consider myself a real peopl person and a good Communicator.
I feel real compassion for people and their problems. I understand the need to work in partnership with other organisations and I appreciate the important role our voluntary organisations play.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : Experience of District and town Council also with Voluntary organisations in partnership working in Communities during my time with Babergh. I have been Vice Chairman and Chairman and also former Sudbury town Mayor;
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mrs Jan Osbourne
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : I am passionate about retaining our health services and keeping it accessible. I am Sudbury Mayor and a strong advocate.
Why do you want to be a governor? : I believe in our Health Services and want to work and be part of this great institution. I would like to bring my experience and passion to serve as Governor, to ensure
that it continues to be accessible to all.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : I have been both a Town and District Councillor
for twelve years, during which time I was Babergh Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing. I am
currently the Mayor of Sudbury.
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mrs Rebecca Poynter
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : I am passionate about the NHS and believe my skill set can support robust, ethical and representative governance.
Why do you want to be a governor? : I have received excellent treatment from the West Suffolk, and want to give back with my time, effort and expertise. I want to better understand the challenges and
be part of a governance structure providing effective, workable and sustainable solutions.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? :
I can offer
- experience as Head of Governance for a public sector body
- an understanding of accountability and strategic approach
- a desire to engage with stakeholders
- a clear understanding of the Nolan Principles of Public Life
- consideration, collaboration and commitment
Are you a member of a political party? : Yes
If you have answered yes, please let us know which one : Labour Party
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mr Barry Probert
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : I’m hard of hearing and
my experience of coping with hearing loss may be helpful to others.
Why do you want to be a governor? : To represent us with hearing difficulties at The Foundation.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : My skills are my experience of having a
hearing disability and living with it.
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Ms Clare Rose
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : As a governor I will represent patient views and provide support and scrutiny to current and future healthcare plans.
Why do you want to be a governor? : I believe everyone should have access to great healthcare. I welcome the opportunity to represent the patients of West Suffolk Hospital and to be able to support and improve the services we all receive.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : I have significant governance experience from previous governance roles. I also have a good understanding of the current challenges facing the NHS. I welcome the opportunity to use my skills and experience to improve services at West Suffolk Hospital.
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : Yes
If you have answered yes, please let us know what your interest is : I am a Civil Servant working for Crown Commercial Service supporting national health procurement. I am also currently working with the New Hospital Programme. My partner owns a local electrical contracting business that has provided services for West Suffolk Hospital.
Mr Michael Simpkin
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : 12 years Trustee for
Citizens Advice West Suffolk, I have developed skills that are transferable to become a Public Governor
Why do you want to be a governor? : My involvement with the Health Sector from Healthwatch Executive committee, that formed Healthwatch Suffolk, to contributing to the Research strategy for SNEE 2022 – 2027. See new technologies implemented for the benefit of patients at WSH and in the local community
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : Able to communicate at all levels, work as a team player, read documents thoroughly, able to listen to others and take forward constructive/negative comments to the relevant. person/s, and give feedback in a timely manner if required
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mrs Jane Skinner
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : Currently Lead Governor,
I fully understand my role, and am committed to representing your views and interests to the Trust .
Why do you want to be a governor? : A retired critical care matron I believe patients should receive timely, safe and high quality care. Governors have a vital role to play in providing local accountability,
I am comfortable asking questions on your behalf; I enjoy the role.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : I draw on experience gained from a career
in the NHS and six years as a Governor. I have attended Governor training and development and will provide continuity and experience to a new Council. I am motivated, enthusiastic and compassionate.
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mr David Slater
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : Retired and having worked in the Public Sector I have time to support the Trust as it faces new challenges.
Why do you want to be a governor? : This role provides an interesting opportunity to make a positive contribution to support the development of Trust in the future. Helping make the new to the hospital successful for both patients, staff and the community is important to me.
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : My Public Sector career included working for
HPA/PHE and I understand how the health sector works. Skills such as finance, programme and change
management, supporting colleagues working collaboratively will be areas of knowledge I can bring to the Trust.
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No
Mr Stephen John Webster
In no more than 20 words, tell the voters why they should vote for you. : I value our NHS and think it is incredibly important we look after it.
Why do you want to be a governor? : I want to be a part of the future in helping the NHS. This would be an amazing challenge and responsibility
What skills do you think you could bring to the role? : I've been a school Governor, so aware of the importance Governors make. I understand the needs/challenges WSFT faces and have had experience with family using the service. The time is right to offer myself to something I am passionate about.
Are you a member of a political party? : No
Do you have any financial or other interest in the Trust? : No