Governor spotlight: Dr Tricia Scott
Tricia, who is mid-way through her first tenure as a public governor for Teesside, told us a little about herself and her role.
Where are you based/work/study?
"I recently retired. However, I've had a very rewarding career.
"I was a mental health nurse, then an emergency department sister in Teesside. Then, as senior lecturer, I pioneered the development of the emergency nursing course in the North East. As senior professional advisor in healthcare regulation in Belfast, I focused on the national strategic policy framework for nurses, midwives and health visitors. I made many wonderful friends and mentors who, 25 years on, I continue to spend time with. This role opened a door to international work on regulatory standards to create the Czech Republic health professions register and lead essential collaborative projects to strengthen emergency nursing in Africa.
"Having gained a PhD Sociology and Social Policy from Durham University, further research beckoned so, as principal lecturer and programme director for a university doctorate programme in health research. The students, mature senior health and social care professionals, created amazing projects with significant impact on improved health systems and patient experiences. How privileged I am to have been invited into their world of practice e.g., substance use, pregnant prisoner experiences, autism diagnostics or female genital mutilation, each student helped me challenge my thinking and I really hope they benefitted from my support. Having retired, I now focus on publishing some overdue academic books and papers."
What made you want to become a governor and what do you get out of the role?
"Throughout the years, I’ve witnessed major developments in emergency services and welcomed the increasingly professional status of emergency personnel who make an enormous contribution to the welfare of vulnerable people in our region. So, it comes as no surprise that I would wish to contribute as public governor.
"Personally, it’s good to be among people who understand the specific language of emergency care. I feel connected as I support and challenge assumptions about what works for patients and staff and the systems to strengthen care.
"I’ve met many dedicated people who are totally committed to improve NEAS."
What do you do when you’re not volunteering as a governor?
I’m one of those curious people with wide-ranging interests. I’ve been delving into genealogy to find my Viking and Irish roots, a couple of Scottish Border Lairds and a famous chocolatier. Their stories can be quite remarkable.