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Become a Governor

Why we need governors and what their role is

Foundation Trust status will mean increased independence from central government control, and local people will have a real say in how their hospital is run. Governors will function as a bridge for communication between the Trust members and the Trust Board by formally representing the public perspective, and the ideas and opinions of members from within their constituency at Council of Governor meetings.

In addition, specific responsibilities will include:

  • Consulting on development plans and significant changes in hospital services;
  • Representing members’ views on the development of forward plans;
  • Receiving the financial accounts, annual reports and appointing the auditors of the Trust;
  • Ensuring that a public perspective is provided on the performance of the hospital;
  • Appointing the Trust chairman and other non-executive directors;
  • Governors may also join or form sub committees in areas of interest to their constituents.

Time commitment required

The Council of Governors will meet four times a year, including an Annual Members Meeting. Governors will also have to communicate with their members so time commitment for this should also be considered.

How you can become a governor

Governors are elected from our membership by the members in the constituency they wish to represent. The Council of Governors will consist of elected public and staff governors and nominated representatives from stakeholder groups.

Find my Constituency

The election process will begin later this year, and all members who have expressed an interest in the elections will be invited to governors workshops which will provide more information about the Council of Governors and the election process. Nomination forms will be made available shortly after the workshops to those who wish to stand for election.

Please note that only those who are members of the Foundation Trust before the notice of poll is issued can be involved in the elections.

Where can I find more information?

Closer to the elections, we will run governors workshops which will aim to cover in detail:

  • An introduction to the NHS and Bedford NHS Trust;
  • An introduction to key staff;
  • Roles and responsibilities of the Council of Governors;
  • Time commitment and input required for the role.

And give interested members the opportunity to:

  • Ask any further questions;
  • Assess their suitability to the role;
  • Gain help and advice regarding nomination forms.

Dates of Governor workshops will be published, closer to the elections.

If you would like to ask any questions about the Council of Governors or request an information pack, please contact the membership office on the details provided below.  If you are interested in standing for election as a Foundation Trust governor, please let us know so that we can keep you up to date with the dates for the governors workshops and other important information.

Email: communications@bedfordhospital.nhs.uk
Write to: Membership Office, Communications Department, Bedford Hospital NHS Trust, Kempston Road, Bedford, MK42 9DJ
Telephone: 01234 792627