Mary Burd
Why did you become a governor?
I have recently retired from the NHS after over 30 years service in East London and was keen to use some of my time to contribute to the work of the NHS. As a clinical psychologist and psychoanalytic psychotherapist I have always been extremely interested in the work of the Tavistock and Portman and have had a long association with the organisation throughout my working life. I have attended courses and conferences, used its consultation service, referred patients and been an external assessor for staff appointments as well as being responsible for the East London contract for psychological services.
I have lived in Camden for over 40 years and becoming a public governor for this area enables me to use my knowledge of local services and the needs of the population in the interests of the trust and those it serves.
Which areas of the trust's work would you like to become involved in and why?
I am interested in all areas of the trust's work but particularly its clinical work and teaching. As governors, governance is of course a key feature of our responsiblities, so I chose to sit on the clinical governance committee. Having worked in an area of London with an extremely diverse population including large BME communities, I welcome the opportunity to apply this experience as a member of the equalities committee.
Recognising the importance of a strong trust board, I would like to contribute to the appointment of new non-executive directors. Coming from a research background and in a climate where all organisations are required to provide an evidence base for their work, I believe I could also make a contribution to the trust's work in this area.
What skills and knowledge do you feel you can bring to the trust?
I bring a strong commitment to the ethos of the work of the trust. I have a good understanding and knowledge of the issues facing the trust, having worked in the NHS both providing and managing psychological services for over 30 years.