Governor Experience: Michelle Holness - Championing compassion and accountability
At the recent Council of Governors Representation Committee Meeting, Michelle Holness, Service User Governor for LPFT, shared her reflections on her first year in the role. She shared a powerful testimony about the importance of lived experience, compassion and accountability in shaping mental health services.
Michelle began by highlighting the personal motivation behind her decision to stand for election last year. “I became a governor for LPFT because I care deeply about mental health, community wellbeing and making sure that the voices of patients, carers and staff are truly heard,” she said.
Her aim was clear from the outset: to bring real-world experience into the heart of LPFT’s governance and to ensure that the Trust delivers safe, responsive and person-centred care; not just in principle, but in practice.
Over the past year, Michelle has actively engaged with service users, staff and fellow governors. She has listened, asked questions and raised concerns and ideas to help shape the direction of the Trust. “I’ve been proud to play a part in oversight and assurance,” she noted, “especially as we navigate ongoing pressures in the NHS and wider mental health services.”
While acknowledging the progress made, Michelle was candid about the challenges that remain. Her message was one of hope and determination; that through collaboration and continued focus on what matters most to patients and carers, we can keep improving and delivering care that truly makes a difference.
