Meet our governors

Keith Mitchell

I first became a governor because I believe that two things in life should be of the highest possible standard and free at the point of delivery – health and education.

My particular interest is care of the elderly and patients with dementia. I have gathered feedback from patients, relatives, friends and carers on the wards about ways to improve the patient experience and spent time with relatives of patients coming to the end of their life to ensure that the best possible care is being provided. This feedback is invaluable and led to changes being made to improve facilities for patients and carers and their overall experience of our hospitals.

I have been elected to committees covering areas including, elderly care, valuing staff and wellbeing, end of life care, membership development, and infection control and served as deputy lead governor.

As a governor I have ensured that members' views are heard at council of governors' and board of directors’ meetings. I attend a range of public events so I can speak to as many people as possible hear their views on care and treatment at the hospitals and let them know about what is happening at our hospitals, including, going to speak with local groups and organisations. All of which helps improve the care provided at our hospitals.

If you would like someone to talk to a group, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Sharon Collett

Following election I was able to engage in a wide range of activity and it has been a joy. This included council of governor meetings, listening events for the public and member recruitment sessions. Furthermore I was voted onto the quality, safety and performance committee and the nomination and remuneration committee, both of which are central to the effective working of the hospital.

I have attended board meetings, the quality reference and members engagements groups and training opportunities. It has been an honour to visit wards and contribute to the selection of winners of staff awards. In addition, I’ve sat on an interview panel to recruit a non-executive director, attended health lectures and the annual members meeting.

Diane Smelt

I have a strong personal commitment to the NHS and I am passionate about the provision of local health services. I have been a volunteer for over 20 years and have undertaken a variety of roles which has enabled me to gain considerable knowledge and experience about the way health services are provided, both locally and nationally.

As a Senior Manager in a professional and challenging public service work environment I developed a thorough knowledge of corporate governance, strategic planning and performance management, as well as an understanding of human resource practices and procedures.

In order to shape and further improve services I think it is important that the voice of patients, carers and members of the public are heard at Board level. I will actively engage with the residents of Bournemouth in order to obtain their views and to take forward any issues which may arise to ensure their interests are fairly represented.

Colin Blebta

The local NHS Trust has provided a tremendous service to my family over the years from end-of-life care for my mum, ongoing stroke treatment for my dad and a few A&E visits for my (over active) sons! Now I would like to give something back.

I have the enthusiasm, energy and time to make a difference. My background in senior finance roles in several businesses including healthcare companies will help me to both support and challenge the Trust on financial and commercial matters. This is critical through a period of transformation and significant investment for the Trust.

At the same time, I would also like to actively engage with the wider community giving me the opportunity to listen to concerns, raise issues with the Trust and provide ongoing communication and feedback.

Mark Haslam

I have become a governor because as the father of a special needs daughter I have used the services of our hospitals more than the average. I have seen and experienced the very best and some of the worst of what our hospitals can do, yet I will defend them against their critics. I am proud of the hospitals and all of the services it provides and in the role of governor I will help silence the critics by confirming that the trust is performing to the best of its capabilities and if not asking why not.

I am 58 years old, married with 3 daughters, two of which are teachers locally, I am currently employed as a Production Manager at a local company. I have lived in Bournemouth or Poole all my adult life.

I am capable of speaking against what I believe is wrong and favour finding solutions.

Elizabeth McDermott

I have been a member of the trust for 4 years and feel I will make a valuable and positive contribution as a Governor.

Since 1996 I have completed regular questionnaires for the Million Women Health Study, and for the last four years as a member of the Consultation Panel, helping to compile the questions. I have been a member of a G.P. Surgery P.P.C..

I retired after fifteen years working for Dorset County Council Social Services Sight and Hearing Services Team. My work included visiting and supporting residents in community settings or in their home giving relevant information, practical skills, equipment and encouragement to help improve quality of life and wellbeing.

I have a keen interest in NHS services and delivery to bring communication, commitment and interaction skills liaising with the trust members and public during this period of time with changes and challenges.

Robert Bufton

Born opposite Parkstone Park, Poole in 1954. Attended Poole Grammar School and trained as an accountant in a local practice. Director and owner of CR Accountancy Solutions Limited: provider of Interim and Project Management services. Worked in London, Luxembourg, Italy, France, Germany and Canada but always lived in Poole. Now working locally and at a more leisurely pace giving me free time. I have four sons aged 24 to 30. Interests - A “Practice Champion“ of Wessex Road Surgery, Parkstone under the “Altogether Better/Patients helping Patients” (NHS scheme for GP surgeries). I have served as Governor/Trustee of Poole Grammar School, Trustee/Treasurer of the School Trust Fund and Director of South West Academic Trust (retired 2016 - in post for 25 years). I enjoy sailing, golf, walking, Zumba, VeraFlow and good food. Governorship of Poole Hospital – I have been admitted to Poole Hospital. It has taken care of my family’s health all our lives. I have given something back as a Governor. Found my business, financial knowledge, bringing up 4 boys. being an NHS Practice Champion (Primary Care) enabled me to help the Hospital (member of various committees and Governor’s observer on the Directors’ Finance and Investment Committee: I would like to help all three hospitals by serving as a Governor of University Hospitals Dorset.

Andrew McLeod

I served as a governor at Poole Hospital from 2018 up until the formation of the new University Hospitals Dorset. I would like to support the transition period in which the nature and function of all the major East Dorset hospitals will change dramatically.

I qualified as a doctor in 1973 and worked in medicine and cardiology at many different hospitals, in the UK and the USA, including a period of four years as a London teaching hospital consultant. In 1988 I was appointed as the first consultant in cardiology at Poole Hospital. I worked at both Poole and Royal Bournemouth Hospitals until 2016. I realise that there are no easy answers to either our local or national health care strategies, but I hope to contribute towards an improvement in the organisation of health services in our community. Finally, many among my family and friends have experienced loss, or serious illness, which has been treated locally. This has brought me into contact with parts of the NHS other than my own specialties. I therefore have a good understanding of the wider healthcare needs of the people in Dorset.

Michele Whitehurst

The NHS has been an important part in my life since 1991, working as a Medical Secretary, Rehabilitation Assistant, and Medical Admin & Staff Coordinator. Though I left NHS employment in 2015 to complete a Management Degree and support a growing family business as a Director, I was very proud to be elected as a Public Governor for the Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals in 2017. I have always been inspired and motivated to make a difference and believe passionately in the NHS as it faces increasing challenges. I love meeting and helping people. In addition to my previous Governor duties, I also volunteer my time at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital as a Staying Active Volunteer, but particularly this year encouraging the use of hand gel and handing out of face masks at the main entrances. I believe strongly that the Trust must continue to deliver high-quality services that are responsive, safe, efficient and cost effective. I have been privileged to share in the experiences of patients and their families, and also staff. I would love to build on my last three years as a Public Governor (having been involved in public engagement events, audit work, committees and hospital merger work) to continue to encourage strong relationships, increasing collaboration and new ways of thinking.

Carrie Stone

The NHS and particularly Poole Hospital has been part of my life for many years. My family were cared for by all the hospitals of University Hospitals Dorset. I was born in Poole’s Maternity Unit and for 38 years worked at Poole Hospital. I was Head of Legal Services until 2015 when I was appointed as the Trust’s Company Secretary, retiring in March 2021.

I have in-depth knowledge of how the NHS and the Trust works and having worked closely with the Board of Directors and Council of Governors, their respective responsibilities and accountabilities. Part of my role was to advise the Board and Council, both before and following the merger. I have recently started volunteering to support the local Covid vaccination programme

I’m pleased to continue to support the Trust and the people of Poole and West Dorset. It is important that patients, their families and our communities have a voice in shaping future care and protecting services. Listening to members and giving feedback to the Trust is one of the most important for me as a Governor. I have that listening experience and ability to feedback objectively and accurately to ensure that local voices are heard by those who make decisions on services. Looking to the future I would love to contribute to the continuing development of health services and play my part in ensuring patients receive high quality, compassionate and safe care.

Richard Ferns

I became a governor to inform about the changes, especially Poole Urgent Treatment Centre. I have addressed two groups with a presentation highlighting the need for changes across the University Hospitals Dorset (UHD).

I plan to continue these talks in the immediate future and many more as they come to mind or are recommended.

I was born in Poole and lived there all my life, becoming a Society of Poole Men member. I have a passion for Poole.

I was also 30+ years with Poole Scouts, serving on the Borough Executive, Scout Fellowship and as PRO for the Borough.

I am pleased to be a UHD Foundation Trust governor and have this opportunity.

It is most fulfilling to have an opportunity to make a difference in our hospitals going forward.

Sandy Wilson

Three years as a Governor of RBCH has enabled me to understand the wider health strategy for the region and the need to merge two excellent Trusts. During these years I have been able to be an ambassador for RBCH particularly in Christchurch, East Dorset and West Hampshire through bringing health professionals to local talks, engaging with the public to gather views, comments and concerns, as well as monitoring the Trust’s progress and challenging where necessary.

As a retired CEO of a management consultancy working strategically with both private and public organisations, my work required challenging senior leaders whilst working with them to deliver change. Underpinning this success was gathering a broad spectrum of views, engaging with all levels, genders and ethnic groups. I believe such experience is critical for UHD to help maintain the focus on patient needs whilst ensuring plans are practical and implementable. This is particularly relevant whilst the realignment of patient services and the investment in hospital facilities radically transforms over the next 5 years.

Covid has shaken us all. Governors received regular updates on actions to support the community and staff during this time enabling us to understand and monitor the situation. I have been amazed at how challenges have been met and future possibilities planned for. I am a passionate supporter of the NHS and wish to continue my journey of support whilst it enters its next exciting, albeit challenging, phase.

Steve Dickens

My business background includes being Head of Quality Assurance for BT for 10 years, and a Senior Manager in BT’s Corporate Governance team for 5 years. This experience and associated skills are valuable in my Governor role of being a ‘critical friend’ to the Board of Director. I’m experienced at working with, and representing the interests of, different stakeholders; and represented BT on an international telecommunications forum for 7 years, including 3 years elected as European Chair. The skills gained here are valuable in my Governor role of representing the interests of Trust members and partner organisations.

Having recently retired, I’m keen to give something back to the community; and having had 50+ years in business, 20 of those in senior management roles, I aim to utilise the skills, knowledge and experience gained. I am a good listener and I feel that this is valuable in my Governor role of gaining feedback from patients and the general public about their experiences with UHD. Having been an inpatient of both Royal Bournemouth and Poole hospitals, I’m enthusiastic about the future plans for UHD, I’m pleased to act as an ambassador for those with the wider public.

Jeremy Scrivens

Like most people in this country I really believe in the founding principles of the NHS. High quality medical care for all and free at the point of delivery. I have been a Volunteer for a number of years at Bournemouth Hospital and recently underwent successful major surgery. This has enabled me to experience, first-hand, both the dedication and commitment of staff, the welcoming smile of the Volunteers and some of the issues faced by patients.

These experiences have made me want to become more involved in helping the Trust. Much has been said about waiting lists, lack of available beds, the possibility of a flu crisis and Covid. As a Governor, I make it my priority to support the trust in dealing with these challenges. I have the desire, commitment and the skills to represent the members of the public and to support the Trust to become one of the best in the country.

Before retirement, I was the Managing Director of an Insurance Brokerage. I started in a small office and over the years built the business into a successful Company with over 30 staff. In so doing, I gained valuable experience in financial management, team building, staff relations and dispute resolution.

Kani Trehorn

My name is Kani Trehorn and I currently work in the University Hospitals Dorset as Discharge Facilitator in the Trauma Directorate mostly working towards safe and timely discharges on complex cases by working alongside social services and therapy team as well as liaising with external Care Home settings.

I am a qualified midwife and a nurse since 1989 and I have worked full time for 99% of this period.

I have been fortunate to acquire a significant amount of experience in Midwifery, Casualty, Nursing Homes Management to meet quality compliance of troubled homes and Teaching Health & Social Care induction in my recent years.

Besides serving the people with a smile in a few countries including charity work, I have a particular interest in Staff welfare. My attitude is always, 'Happy staff equals happy patients'. My style is to be calm even in utmost storm and give your best in an effortless way. I helped staff achieve their fulfilment in their roles by supporting them to enjoy meeting care standards of positive outcome as expected by the regulators and the department of health.

My aim as a staff governor will no doubt echo the above mentioned passion of supporting staff and be channel of trusted voice.

My hobbies include creative writing, acrylic painting, playing cricket and visiting historic churches.

I live with my family and pet animals.

Rob Flux

Having worked for University Hospitals Dorset (formerly Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch NHS Foundation Trust) for over a decade now, I have seen many changes, both good and not so good and being a manager of one of the pivotal non-clinical services within the Trust, I am constantly liaising with clinical leads, heads of departments and specialists who serve the community and am acutely aware of the significant role that UHD plays in supporting the community.

Being a Governor provides far greater exposure to the roles that play out in both an internal and external capacity from a Trust perspective and gives a panoramic view to how changes, adaptations and developments, no matter how grand or small, impact the entirety of those working for the Trust, those utilising its essential services and those with vested interests in the futurity of UHD as a dedicated and necessary service across Dorset. As a Governor I provide a representative voice in both an internal and external capacity in supporting the Trust in its continuing transformative journey.

Colin Hamilton

Joining other family members in the NHS, I started as a Bank Porter in 2020, after a 40-year career with Marks & Spencer in store, regional and programme management. My skills and knowledge make me a good fit for this role, including significant experience of managing people, recruitment, retention, remuneration and performance management. As a budget holder, I had responsibility for managing large store revenues and capital programmes e.g. store openings.

I am experienced at working within tight constraints, seeking cost efficiencies and continuous improvement, in line with due process and governance. My values fit with Trust values and the Nolan principles. I take a balanced and informed approach, championing the needs of others, asking relevant questions, weighing up the pros and cons and helping to make sensible decisions.

As a porter, I spend a lot of time talking with patients across the services, hearing how they are feeling and getting an understanding of how we can improve their overall care and experience. I also have contact with a large range of colleagues across all roles. My insights into the pressures and issues affecting them would enable me to represent their thoughts and opinions and articulate the impact of the forthcoming changes.

I have come to care deeply about the NHS and UHD and I want the best healthcare for my community. With the skill, knowledge and energy I offer, I am in a perfect position to be an effective governor during this unprecedented period of pressure and change.

Paul Hilliard

BCP Council

Paul was born in Barton on Sea, and has lived in Christchurch for the past 25 years. He shares his home in Highcliffe with his wife Helen and two sons, who both attend Highcliffe School. He has a background in finance, economics and customer service working initially with Barclays Bank, and latterly with HSBC. Paul is active in the community as the Mudeford, Stanpit and West Highcliffe ward Councillor on BCP Council. He is also a Parent Governor at Highcliffe School, a founding Trustee at both the Mudeford Wood and Somerford ARC community centres, a Governor of the Royal Bournemouth & Christchurch Hospitals Trust, and a Member of the Dorset & Wilts Fire & Rescue Authority.In his spare time you will see him cycling around the area and enjoying our great open spaces and beaches.

Beryl Ezzard

Dorset Council

I was born on a Farm in Corfe Castle and lived in Purbeck all my life. Working away for 9 years in Worcester and Farnborough for the MOD Space Department, as a Contract Administrator, Manager and Auditor. My career began as a Business Secretary with a local Purbeck Stone company, I married and had two children. Returning to work as a School Secretary at the Wareham Middle School for 12 years. I enrolled with Bournemouth College and achieved a BTEC course in Public Administration on a day release course. With this qualification I became employed on the MOD Contracts. When my fiancée died of a Brain Tumour in 1999, I became the Managing Director of Darius Ltd in Alton: designing and making bespoke array pedestals for tracking satellites globally. We had contracts with UK, EU and USA.

In my holidays, I trained as a Driving Instructor, becoming a DipDI in 1993. My Driving Instruction business, as a sole trader, had to be put on hold whilst running Darius until 2003. It was resumed, until 2009, doubling up in the Summer months running a B&B.

My interests on Local Government, since 2004 has always been Health & Wellbeing; and having a fair and well-balanced budget. A Member on the Dorset Health Scrutiny Committee for many years, including aspects of Adult Social Care and Children’s progress and Education. Also, a Committee Member of the Eastern Area Planning Committee.

During Covid-19 thro’ Dorset Community Action set up Wareham Help&Kindness Volunteer Group.

Sue Comrie

I'm Bournemouth born and bred. In fact, I was born in Boscombe Hospital.

I’m accustomed to being part of a large team as from 1971 until the end of 2009 I worked for HMRC. In the last 5 years of my employment I was on the Senior Management Team with responsibility for communication and training across the Bournemouth and Portsmouth sites.

I was widowed in 2014 following which I started volunteering at my local primary school.

I joined RBH as a volunteer in 2019 as a Staying Active Companion, on a ward working with physiotherapists, to help mainly elderly patients maintain physical and mental capability prior to discharge.

My main role during the pandemic, and currently, is as a PPE volunteer, now renamed a Guider. My duties are primarily to provide a friendly face, reassurance and practical help to get visitors where they need to be on time. And I’m wheelchair trained! The role can also include providing assistance when necessary to porters, housekeeping and the Enquiry Desk.

My activities over the 4 years have given me a good insight into the running of RBH specifically and of the Trust in general.

I become a Volunteer Governor because I want to expand my knowledge and engage further with Volunteers and other staff across the Trust.

And I like people! A desire to help people is one of the main reasons I became a volunteer.

I see the role of Volunteer Governor as being a conduit to aid communication between the Trust and Volunteers. A 2 way means of communication to help volunteers better understand the changing needs of the Trust and how they might be able to use their skills to meet those needs.