Becoming a Governor
Our governors are community-focused people who understand the complexity of healthcare, prioritise public needs, listen to diverse perspectives and actively engage in informed and constructive decision-making to support the needs of our patients.
Who can be a Governor?
Governors are usually local people who have an interest in healthcare and want to improve services for their community. Good Governors:
- Understand the complexity of the health service
- Put community needs above personal preference
- Champion the views of local people
- Listen actively and value different perspectives
- Support fellow Governors, including those from under‑represented groups
- Work collaboratively as part of a team
- Ask constructive, thoughtful questions
- Are willing to read key documents and attend relevant meetings
What commitment is needed to be a Governor?
Our Council of Governors meets four times a year, however you will often need to attend additional meetings, including sub‑committees.
Most Governors can expect to attend between four and 12 meetings a year, although some choose to be involved in much more. In many ways, the role can be as busy and as involved as you want it to be.
Before deciding whether to stand for election, it’s important to think realistically about whether you have the time to take on the role and participate fully as a Governor.
Do Governors get paid?
No, this is a voluntary role, although reasonable agreed expenses will be reimbursed by the trust.
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