Celebrating Black History Month at NUH - Part Two
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUH) are continuing to mark Black History Month (BHM) this October, by sharing stories from some of our staff members about what this month means to them.
At NUH, we want our hospitals to be great and inclusive places to work, where opportunities to develop and progress are open to all.
Gilbert George – Director of Corporate Governance
Gilbert has worked at NUH since February 2023 and, as part of his role, Gilbert covers a variety of areas across the hospital including, Legal, Governance, Inclusion and much more. He is also the Chair of bi-monthly national seminars for Executive Directors of Governance.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
It’s a time of reflection on the past, recognising the many achievements of the Black community under very difficult circumstances, but also a positive look forward; in particular, how can I pass on my professional and lifetime experience to the next generation.
How are you celebrating / marking BHM?
I am doing more research into Black people’s individual achievements and disseminating positive information across my media platforms.
The theme for this year is ‘Saluting our Sisters’ – highlighting the crucial role Black women have played in shaping history, inspiring change and building communities’. Can you tell us about an inspirational woman in your life and why they inspire and motivate you?
The most inspirational woman in my life has to be my mother, who sadly passed away last year, but she’s never forgotten. Her values and wisdom form a substantial element of who I am and what I stand for; but most importantly, mum had a ‘can do’ attitude and did everything with a smile.
What do you think needs to be done more to encourage more people from the Black community to join NUH / NHS?
Engage, engage, engage and more engagement. This means a willingness to go out into the community and not just rely on the traditional ways of recruiting. The one thing that has struck me at NUH is the number of Black members of staff that have been at NUH for 10 years and more. We must do something right. Yes, there is still more to do in breaking down barriers, the embracing of our values to inform our behaviour and for all of us to become much more culturally aware; but on the whole, there is a great team spirit that prevails.
How do you think your role influences change and improvements for the Black community?
I am very much seen as a role model, being a Board member for various public bodies for over 20 years. I understand that my visibility at board level is an encouragement to many and is proof the so-called ‘glass ceiling’ can be broken.
What is something you’ve done during your time at NUH which you’re really proud of?
Working with a team where our first objective as team leaders is to create a joyful work environment and show all in the team due respect. My opening words to my team when I first arrived at NUH were that there is no hierarchy in my team meetings, every voice will be headed and respected. That doesn’t mean we can’t disagree, which I welcome hearing opposing views; but this must be done in a respectful way.
Why did you want to get into a career in the NHS?
I have worked in the public sector all my life, because the NHS plays such an important role in society and the giving of support and help to those in need aligns to my values.
What do you love about your role?
Simply my teams and the excellent team spirit we have formed in such a short time.