It is with sadness that we share the news that our colleague and friend David Boaz, public governor for Sandwell, has died.
David had proudly represented his Sandwell constituency for several years, something he had always described as ‘an honour’. In fact, he found the role of a governor so rewarding, that he was always eager to stand again at the end of each term.
David had experienced poor mental health and wanted to use his lived experience to improve mental health services. Alongside fellow governor Councillor Archer Williams (Sandwell Council), he regularly engaged with Sandwell residents through drop-in sessions at Glebefields Library in Tipton, providing advice and signposting where appropriate.
David had always been an active governor at Black Country Healthcare and legacy trusts. Despite being in poor health over the last year, he remained in contact, attending meetings and his local surgeries when he could.
David had lived in Tipton for 80 years and spent all but two years of his working life at Beans Foundries, starting as a wages clerk and finally a management services manager. One of his proudest moments was his involvement with the design of the new Ford Puma engine block where he successfully persuaded the team that the design was impractical and needed changing. Challenging when he thought improvement was needed and working together for a better solution was a skill he used when representing Sandwell residents.
Phil Gayle, Interim Trust Chair of Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust said:
“We recognise and give thanks for David’s considerable contribution to improving mental health services and supporting Sandwell residents. Over many years David has helped people in Sandwell improve their knowledge of and access to mental health support. We send our sincere condolences to David’s family and friends, and all those who will have connected with him throughout his time as a governor for Sandwell.”
Elsie Gayle (no relation), Lead Governor at Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust said:
“On behalf of the entire Council of Governors I would like to convey our deepest sympathies to David’s family and friends and recognise the important contributions David has made to the trust and mental health services over the years.”