We are excited to be inviting applications to join a brand-new community group that will help shape the future of mental health services and support across the Black Country.
The PCREF Governance Oversight and Advisory Group will play a vital role in making sure Black Country Healthcare is truly anti-racist, and that the voices and experiences of patients, carers, and communities are at the heart of how services are designed and delivered.
This first phase will run for six months, after which we’ll review and build on what works—together.
What is PCREF?
The Patient and Carer Race Equality Framework (PCREF) is about making sure people from racialised and underserved communities have real influence over how services are run. It brings together young people, adults, and older adults to co-design care and improve outcomes.
Alongside this advisory group, the Trust will also be recruiting PCREF Community Ambassadors who will lead local engagement groups and activities, making sure those patients and carers most often left out have a platform. Keep an eye out for applications for this community outreach role in the coming weeks. Together, these two groups will make sure community voices are shaping services at every level.
About the Advisory Group
The group will have eight community representatives (two from each of Sandwell, Dudley, Walsall, and Wolverhampton) plus Black Country Healthcare leads to share data, policies and take recommendations back into the organisation.
What the group will do
As a member, you’ll help provide independent challenge and fresh thinking by:
- Reviewing equality data, audits, and Trust policies every quarter
- Leading or joining smaller subgroups (e.g. inpatient care, mental health in the community, workforce diversity)
- Checking new policies through an equality lens
- Co-chairing projects alongside senior staff
- Sharing recommendations with the wider Health Equity and Anti-Racism oversight board
Time and Support (over 6 months)
- 2-3 full-day meetings – £250/day
- Up to eight half-day subgroup sessions – £125/half-day
- Training and induction – £250
Total: up to £2,000 per member
Why Get Involved?
By joining, you’ll:
- Help hold Black Country Healthcare to account on its anti-racism commitments
- Shape reports, audits, and activities that directly influence local and regional priorities
- Build lasting partnerships that push forward health equity across the Black Country
How to Apply
If this sounds like something you’d like to be part of, please apply using this online form. The closing date is 30 September 2025. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an informal conversation.
We would love for you to bring your voice, expertise, and lived experience to this important work.
For any queries or further information please contact bchft.pcref@nhs.net.