In this week’s Beyond the Badge, we meet Staff Governor and RCN Staffside Lead, Phil Cole. With over 30 years at the Trust, Phil, brings passion, perspective and a deep commitment to staff advocacy. A Trade Union Rep and proud RCN voice, he’s driven by fairness, collaboration and the belief that better outcomes come from working together.
As a governor, who do you represent? Tell us a little bit about the area/community/staff group.
That is an interesting question – do we represent as Governors? Or are we representative? I am a Learning Disability Nurse, a Royal College of Nursing Representative. I have worked in the Trust since 1994.
Why did you become a governor at Black Country Healthcare? Why was it important to you to represent your community (internal or external)?
As a trade unionist, I wanted to be involved and understand how Governors could influence change. It is a great opportunity to work with other stakeholders and interested parties to improve provision for patients and staff.
In a few lines, tell us about yourself. What is your experience, professional and personal?
I have been very privileged to enjoy a fascinating career with the trust, starting as a D Grade Nurse at Cape House last millennium, managing a community home in Wednesbury and developing the staff side lead role. I’m proud to be a nurse and passionately believe in the NHS and supporting staff to provide the very best care they can.
What is the best aspect of being a governor?
Meeting and working with other governors, understanding different perspectives but working together for a common goal.
What do you find challenging and how do you manage that?
Time is always an issue – making time to read papers and attend meetings.
What are you proud of or what do you think has been your biggest achievement?
My children!
Professionally, resettling people from a long-stay institution, St Margaret’s Hospital, back to their local communities and being part of the community homes service that provided the very best care.
As a Trade Union Rep, I am really proud that the organisation invests in us, providing the time to support members going through potentially the most stressful time of their career.
How do you relax?
Cycling, swimming, yoga, and I enjoy reading. I’m also currently reading A Thousand Ships by Natalie Haynes – a local author from Birmingham.
What is a favourite book/movie/piece of music?
- Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig
- The Crying Game with Forest Whitaker
- Tiny Dancer by Elton John
Who are your top three fantasy dinner party guests and why?
Jackson Lamb, Emmeline Pankhurst, Charles Bukowski
They are all intelligent people who clearly know their own minds and have the courage of their convictions and this would make for a fascinating dinner party.
Tell us something about yourself that people may not know?
I can do the Rubik’s cube.
Do you have a wellbeing tip that you would like to share?
Always take breaks and make the most of the Trust’s wonderful canteen facilities.
Is there anything else that you would like people to know about you or your role as a governor?
I am currently the Chair of the UK Stewards Committee for the Royal College of Nursing and attend NHS Staff Council.