Derby City West

Ruth is passionate about helping the Trust deliver care that truly puts people first. Healthcare has been a significant part of her life for a number of years , due to caring for her daughter who has cystic fibrosis and she understands the importance of services that support both the individual and their family. She has also recently cared for father at home during his final months under palliative care. Her personal experiences have inspired her to be a voice for patients and families, ensuring services are inclusive, understanding, and focused on what really matters to people. Alongside her personal journey, Ruth has spent years working and volunteering in roles that support patients and improve healthcare: • Advocate for Patients: Ruth reviews medical research proposals for Research Support Services East Midlands to ensure they’re ethical, inclusive, and meaningful. • Improving Care Quality: As an Expert by Experience with the Care Quality Commission, Ruth has visited GP practices and hospitals to gather feedback from patients and families to enhance services. • Community Support: Ruth has fundraised for children with cystic fibrosis and supported families through voluntary work. Ruth has also worked closely with healthcare organisations across the region, advocating for better access and services that meet the needs of patients and families. Ruth feels that by becoming a governor she will be able to bring together her personal experiences, professional background, and her passion for making a difference in people’s lives.

I have been a governor and volunteer at the Trust for twelve years. I know how hard it has been for the whole community over the last two years and you will be feeling overwhelmed and lonely and feel as though you have no voice. The next few years will be crucial in getting back to normality and members and patients will be looking for answers on how the system is moving forward. Governors play a very important role in the Trust, ensuring that there is a strong connection with the community served by the Trust and with the staff who work for it. I have always been committed to the values and behaviours of the Trust and support its goals and objectives. I want stand as a governor at DHCFT I am driven to continue to influence and improve the care and treatment of mental health service users and to represent my constituents of Derby City West. The last twelve years I have taken on additional roles sitting on the Panel of Living With and Beyond Cancer, also the EQUAL group relating to patient experience and being a voice for the patients and members I have the experience and the time to commit to a broader role as a public governor. People need to know what services are available for them. You will need a strong voice to go to the Board and Directors on your behalf. Let me be your voice.