What is a governor?

As a governor you will play a very important role in the Trust. You will act as a link between Foundation Trust members and the Board of Directors.

You will represent members and act as an ambassador for both the Trust and the membership. You will help us make sure that the views of members are heard at board level.

You will have a number of key responsibilities, such as:

• helping us plan for the future
• ensuring the trust is accountable to local people
• recruiting and developing members
• appointing or removing the Chairman and Non-Executive Directors

An effective council of governors is crucial to the success of the Trust and we will help you develop the skills you need to carry out your role as governor. 

TOP

What will my responsibilities be as a governor?

1. to bring new ideas about how services can be improved and provided in ways that meet the needs of the community it serves
2. to discuss strategic plans and new developments
3. to share information about key decisions with other NHS Foundation Trust members
4. to develop membership and represent the interests of members
5. to act as a trustee for the welfare of the organisation, ensuring that the Foundation Trust operates in a way that it should
6. to appoint the Chairman and Non-Executive Directors
7. to set the pay levels for the Chairman and Non-Executive Directors.
8. to receive the Foundation Trust annual report and accounts.

TOP

What will being a governor mean?

The areas you would be involved with as a governor include:

• communication: The governors will act as a link between the Board of Directors and our members
• recruitment: You would also be involved in recruiting new members to make sure that our membership reflects our local communities – in terms of age, gender, ethnic background and interest in services
• governance: Acting as the guardian of the local NHS on behalf of the public. As a governor you will need to make time available to attend meetings, talk to members and to work with non-executive directors. 

TOP

Will I get paid?

Under the regulations governing all foundation trusts, governors are only paid expenses.

TOP

Do I need any special skills or experience?

You do not need any particular skills or experience but a passion for making NHS services better, and for involving a wide range of people will help you enormously. The governors elected will be supported by staff from within the Trust who are experienced in public involvement and communication.

You will also be working alongside staff governors and governors appointed by local councils and other parts of the NHS. 

TOP

How will the elections be run?

We have appointed the Electoral Reform Service to run our elections for us. As well as making sure that we follow a robust process, it also means that the elections are independent of our Trust.

We will give notice of election and invite any nominees (people who wish to stand as governors) to register their interest. Anyone putting themselves forward will be asked to answer the same simple few questions.

This information will be included on our website, and on the voting papers which ERS will send to all members. Once the closing date is reached ERS will count the votes and let us know who has been elected. We will then announce the results publicly.

TOP

Will support be available?

We are happy to discuss any training or support that you may need to help you stand as a governor, or to fulfill the role should you be elected. 

TOP

How much time is needed to fulfill the role of a being a Governor?

A governor is expected to attend the quarterly (4 per year) Public Council of Governor Meetings (the expectation is that you will attend at least 3 out of 4) and the Annual General Meeting. All meetings are held in the Education Centre at the Hospital. Time will also be required to read papers provided for each meeting. Additionally attendance at induction and training events will be required.

TOP

How long will my appointment last?

An appointment as a governor will be for a three year term up to a maximum of 9 years.

TOP

Are there rules I have to follow? How will I know if I’m doing it right?

We will give you the training and support you need to be an effective governor.

TOP