We are the system

For those who believe we have the power to make our public sector system healthier, happier, and more effective

We know that our public sector system is not nearly as effective as it could be at creating good outcomes for everyone. It works based on beliefs and values that no longer serve us and creates dysfunction.

Those of us working in the public sector are the system, our beliefs, behaviours and actions create the system we have. That makes us powerful. We have the power to create the system we want.

Changing the system is hard. It can be frustrating, it can feel like you’re having to work at the ‘edges’ of what’s allowed. It requires resilience in the face of resistance. This is why it takes access to the spaces, tools, and other people who share your belief that we can work to create a better system.

I want to create a better system too and I need the same things. This is why I create the spaces needed to bring people together, provide tools and share learning, and facilitate methods which makes system change work positive, enriching and fulfilling

Dulcie McBride - Founder and Director of Goldfinch

About me

I’m Dulcie. I’m a doctor and Consultant in Public Health medicine. I have worked in a variety of positions throughout the public services system, directly with patients and clients, managing teams, commissioning and strategy. I have been angry and frustrated at how the system conditions influenced what I could do. I felt I was failing the people I was supposed to be helping and felt powerless to make change.

I have been lucky enough to be part of a team who focussed on system improvement. I saw it was possible and learnt what it took to change the system (at least part of it). I saw how system improvement enabled so many people to do their best work and make a positive difference to the people they were helping. It was this experience that inspired me to learn more and do more.

I know I can’t improve the system on my own. We all need to work with others to make that happen. That is why I want to share what I know with others who have the same a passion to make the world a better place so that together we can that shape the system that we need.

What I do

Working with Pioneers

Facilitating methods and providing tools for those wanting to tread a new path on a specific project.
Convening Pioneers

Convening those working differently. Creating communities and networks that can transform wider systems
System Shifts

A six-month learning journey for senior leaders to enable the emergence of a healthier and more effective system
Creating conditions for system healing

Webinars, online workshops and learning journeys to understand more about system healing and what is within your power