NHS Kent and Medway has recruited a people and communities champion to make sure the experiences and views of patients and local communities are always at the heart of decision making.
Bali Rodgers has joined the integrated care board as an independent lived experience and community champion.
Bali is the chief executive officer and founder of the Safer Communities Alliance, a Dartford-based social enterprise supporting grass roots organisations to engage children and young people and co-manager of Refocus, offering training to ex-offenders and ex-users to become educators.
She has more than 25 years’ experience in leading community organisations across England focusing on drug and alcohol rehabilitation, mental health, youth support, and crime prevention.
NHS Kent and Medway plans and buys healthcare services for the population of Kent and Medway. The board makes sure the organisation has plans and processes in place to work effectively and within the law.
Cedi Frederick, Chair of NHS Kent and Medway said:
“Now more than ever, it is important that we focus on people’s views and experiences. I am really delighted that Bali is joining us to advocate for all communities, particularly those who are disadvantaged. Bali’s own experiences, as well as her passion for community voice, will add value to the crucial decisions we make to improve the lives of people across Kent and Medway.”
Bali Rodgers said:
"Having worked in addictions and advocated for several communities facing deep-rooted inequalities, I’ve seen how physical and mental health is often just one part of a much larger picture — including trauma, poverty, housing, and discrimination.
“I am excited to be joining NHS Kent and Medway’s board. From my own personal journey and having worked with many different communities, I have seen how physical and mental health is one part of a much larger picture. Coming from a background of first-generation migrants and with my own experience of abuse has made me appreciate how important it is to advocate for those who don’t have a voice.
"I feel honoured to represent people from across Kent and Medway and will use my experience and expertise in making changes from the bottom up to speak up for patients and communities.”
Her role will involve leading a people and communities advisory group, made up of groups and individuals from across the population of Kent and Medway to feed views and experiences into the work of NHS Kent and Medway.
Bali was born in Dartford where she has lived for most of her life.