Why become a Governor?
Governors act as representatives of patients, the public and staff and provide a direct link between the Trust and the communities they represent. The role of a Governor is to help ensure that the Trust delivers services that meet the needs of patients, carers, staff and local stakeholders, and that the views of local people are heard and fed back to the Board of Directors.
Governors work in partnership with the Board of Directors by giving them support and advice to help shape the Trust’s plans and ensure high quality services are delivered.
Governors are responsible for appointing the Trust Chair and Non-Executive Directors and hold them to account for the Trust’s performance.
Further information on the statutory role of governors can be found here https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/nhs-foundation-trust-governors-a-brief-guide-to-your-duties
You will be offered, from time to time, an opportunity to be a nominated governor observing committee meetings on behalf of the Council of Governors.
You will be expected to bring your knowledge and experience to bear when required.
Requirements
Other than being a member of the Trust, there are no specific requirements to become a Governor and you do not need to have health experience. All you need to have is enthusiasm, a willingness to ask questions and challenge constructively, a desire to make a difference and to be prepared to get out in the community and talk and listen to people about the Trust and their experiences of healthcare.
What some of our Governors think about their role:
You will need to have adequate time to devote to the role.
You don’t need to have health experience but be prepared to read papers submitted by professional managers, some of which may be unfamiliar at first.
You will need basic computer skills.