Karen Nile

1. Who are you?

I am a member of the Patient Advisory Group (PAG), bringing a public and patient perspective to discussions around the Secure Data Environment (SDE). I enjoy working collaboratively with others and contributing to initiatives that have the potential to improve services and outcomes for patients.

2. Why did you want to be part of the group?

I wanted to be part of the group because I was keen to ensure that patient and public voices were represented in the development of the SDE. Being part of a group that can influence and shape something so important has been both rewarding and inspiring. As the PAG has developed, what initially felt like a complex and quite abstract concept has become something much more tangible, and I’ve seen first-hand the impact that meaningful public involvement can have.

3. What has been a highlight for you whilst being a public member?

A major highlight for me has been the opportunity to work alongside really inspirational people, learn about different cultures and backgrounds, and discover the strong shared values that unite the group. The face-to-face sessions and varied guest speakers have been particularly memorable and have added real depth to our discussions.