It’s about people

I’m always curious, I want to know more. The work going on here is impressive. It’s about people and I feel privileged to be part of it.

Bill Ponzini, public governor

I’d been a governor at my local school but this is very different. My first year has been great though, I’ve had so much help from staff, service users and other governors.

I’m down to earth. In discussions I always think, ‘This could be my relative or friend. Will what we’re planning help them?’ I try to see things from all angles but be realistic and pragmatic.

As an example, there’s a push for using technology to improve care. I’ve worked with computers for most of my life, I appreciate we need to gather data. But it’s vital we keep explaining clearly to people that being involved in giving their information is safe and painless.

Having said that, they are the real experts because of their life experiences. I like how governors meet with them and take their views on board. I’m in awe of staff too. I’ve been bowled over by how they step up time after time.

The difference we governors make is by bringing a sense of perspective. We call for assurances from non-executive directors that we’re heading in the right direction, that our strategies, plans and improvements truly reflect the voice of service users and members of the public.

The governors are here to listen to issues raised by service users and our and, through our questioning and monitoring, help services improve. I’m always curious, I want to know more. The work going on here is impressive. It’s about people and I feel privileged to be part of it."

Governor elections will take place early 2025. If you would like to find out more about what a governor role involves, please visit our website: merseycare.nhs.uk/about-us/council-governors

Find out more about our membership and governors at: merseycare.nhs.uk/about-us/council-governors Tel: 0151 471 2303 Email: ft.membership@merseycare.nhs.uk