Staff Governors

A few years ago, I would never have imagined considering standing as governor, let alone standing as a staff governor for SPFT. My personal journey within the Trust has not been straightforward. However, after some encouragement, I have come to realise that the governor role would provide a platform to draw upon these experiences to make a difference. Hailing from an ethnic minority background (Irish Traveller), my lived experience of neurodivergence, chronic physical illness, mental health, as well as my duo-status as a service user and staff member, render me well-placed to represent a multitude of diverse, underrepresented voices.

My autistic honesty, integrity, youth, enthusiasm, creativity, dedication, organisation, and expertise by both lived and professional experience. Through my links with the Neurodivergent, and Disability Staff Networks, as well as from my lived experience role as a Peer Support Specialist for the Neurodevelopmental Service, I am confident I could effectively represent these staff groups. As a service user myself, I have never forgotten where I’ve come from. I remain resolute to the service user movement, reflected no doubt by my prolific tweeting @thelifeof_lorna. Above all, I have a strong sense of justice, and am certainly not afraid to speak up.

'Nothing About Us Without Us' – a slogan originating from disability rights movements. To truly embody the Trust values of People First, Future-Focused, Embracing Change, Working Together, and ensuring Everyone Counts, it is paramount that all decisions are representative of the perspectives of staff, service users, family, friends, and carers.

I have worked for Sussex Partnership for over 20 years in both clinical and administrative settings, and am now a staff governor again for the second time. I have been on both sides of the service, and have a good understanding of the needs of the community and of being a staff member. I feel extremely privileged to be involved and to use my personal experiences to help the Trust. Also, I have gained qualifications and developed personally through training. I have immense respect for patients and staff alike. It’s a real honour to be a staff governor for a second time.