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Colleagues at South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) now have a powerful new voice at the heart of the Trust, thanks to the introduction of a new Shadow Board.
The new group, which is a bold step towards more inclusive leadership and deeper staff engagement, will meet ahead of each Trust Board meeting to examine key documents and debate a focused ‘hot topic’.
The Shadow Board’s views will inform the Trust Board’s discussions and members will work closely with senior leaders, offering a fresh perspective on issues that matter to colleagues and patients.
The Shadow Board is being led by non-executive directors, Max Puller and Karen Norman, who will share chairing responsibilities. Deputy Chief Executive, Margaret Dalziel is the executive sponsor, championing the initiative and ensuring a strong connection with the Trust Board.
To support this important role, members are receiving bespoke leadership development through a tailored programme delivered by the Inspiring Leadership Network (ILN). This includes training on how to interpret board papers, ask meaningful questions, and constructively challenge reports.
“The Shadow Board is a vital step in making our decision-making more inclusive. We’re excited to welcome this first cohort and are looking forward to the fresh insight they’ll bring.”
Margaret Dalziel, Chief Nursing Officer and Deputy Chief Executive, SECAmb.
Shadow Board member and Critical Care Paramedic, Brad Gander added: “It’s a privilege to be part of this initiative. I’m looking forward to contributing to discussions that shape the future of our Trust.”
The first formal meeting of the Shadow Board will take place on 4 June.
Dr. Sabrina Cohen-Hatton KFSM, who was appointed as the new Chief Fire Officer for Hampshire and Isle of Wight last month, recently shared her experience with Shadow Boards and the benefits they can bring.
Writing in a LinkedIn post, Sabrina highlighted how grateful she was for the support and perspectives provided by the Shadow Board at West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (WSFRS), where she was previously the Chief Fire Officer.
‘They [the Shadow Board] really helped to improve the decisions we made, and ultimately, improved the service,’ she wrote, adding that Shadow Boards were a great way to ‘check for blind spots.’
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