Date published: 28 July 2026
In 2025, NHS England commissioned a review into Mersey Care's Board Culture, which has been reported on by the Health Service Journal and other media. It includes criticism and feedback about the board culture and its effects on colleagues' experiences at work. Below is our statement on the review:
We are committed to learning, openness and continuous improvement and welcomed the independent leadership and culture review undertaken last year as an important opportunity to reflect and identify where we can further improve.
The review highlighted several areas to build on, and the Trust acted swiftly to strengthen Board arrangements, enhance governance and decision-making and further embed the leadership behaviours and standards expected across the organisation. We have also created further structured opportunities for colleagues to share feedback, raise concerns and help shape how we continue to improve.
Our senior leadership team is consistently engaging with staff through visible leadership, listening events, staff forums and open dialogue. This feedback is directly informing our improvement programme, with a continued focus on ensuring colleagues feel safe to speak up, know they are listened to and are treated with dignity and respect.
The Trust is also pleased to welcome Sheena Cumisky MBE, who took up the role of Chair in July 2026, and looks forward to her contribution to the Trust's continued development.
Today, we have a cohesive Board and Executive team with a shared ambition for the future of Mersey Care. Culture is never static and we are committed to continually developing our leadership, governance and organisational culture to meet the evolving needs of our patients, communities and staff.
Our focus remains on maintaining the highest standards of care, supporting our people and building an organisation that continues to learn, improve and deliver outstanding services.