Graham Bayliss has been appointed as NHS South Sefton Clinical Commissioning Group’s (CCG’s) new Governing Body lead for patient and public involvement.

Graham joins the CCG as a lay representative after a long and successful career in Local Government, the last 23 of which has been with Sefton Council where he held several senior positions including director of corporate services and director of leisure and tourism.

Commenting on his appointment, Graham said: “I am delighted to have been appointed to the Governing Body of NHS South Sefton CCG, as the lay member for public and patient involvement.

“Having worked in south Sefton for many years I am aware of the challenges we face and the importance of engagement. I look forward to helping our communities and patients become even more involved in health issues, helping to ensure our voices continue to be heard by the NHS.”

Originally from London, Graham studied Geography at Liverpool University and joined Liverpool City Council’s Leisure Department in 1989. He then moved to Sefton in 1993 as chief sport and recreation officer, overseeing the construction of Bootle Leisure Centre.

Becoming director of leisure in 1999, Graham was responsible for improvement to north, south and Derby Parks amongst others. Whilst in this position he also developed a ground-breaking partnership with the NHS to develop the Active Sefton brand and GP referral service.

He has worked in Bootle for many years, liaising closely with communities in south Sefton and voluntary sector groups.

Chair of NHS South Sefton CCG, Dr Andrew Mimnagh, said: “We welcome Graham to the Governing Body and the wealth of experience he brings in championing patient and public participation. We look forward to working with Graham and we’ve no doubt that his contribution will help us to better involve our residents in our work.”

Graham’s appointment follows the retirement of Roger Driver from the Governing Body, who previously held the role since the creation of NHS South Sefton CCG in 2013.

Anyone with an interest in local health and services can hear Graham and other members of the Governing Body discussing and making decisions about the CCG’s work at its next meeting on Thursday 26 May.

NHS South Sefton CCG holds bi-monthly Governing Body meetings in public. There is a chance for people to ask members of the Governing Body questions and queries prior to the start of the formal meeting at 1pm.

More information can be found here.