Having worked previously within both local authority and third sector services, the bulk of my recent experience has been in the NHS as a commissioner of mental health and learning disability services. This has included a lot of partnership working across a range of agencies and involves both planning and project management. Peter brings to the board an understanding of the way local statutory organisations work, especially the Council and the NHS, skills in strategic planning and financial management and an awareness of the opportunities and threats facing ERVAS. He also offers knowledge of commissioning and procurement processes. His main contribution however is as an interested and concerned local citizen who wants to support the local VCS be as effective as possible and to help it manage the difficulties facing the sector in recent years.