What are NHS foundation trust hospitals?

NHS foundation trusts provide healthcare according to core NHS principles - free care at the point of delivery, based on need and not ability to pay. Foundation trusts were established by law which provided them with independence from central government and gave them freedom to make decisions for themselves. The council of governors represents the interests of foundation trust members and other stakeholder organisations. Governors are the individuals that bind a foundations trust to its patients, staff and stakeholders.

If you are elected you will need to submit a declaration of interests form, agree to obtain a DBS check, attend induction training and sign your acceptance of the governors' code of conduct and your roles and responsibilities as a governor.

Why become a governor?

The role of the governor is very important. Governors work with the board to:

  • Advise The Christie on its strategic direction and hold the board of directors to account for the performance of The Christie in meeting the terms of its authorisation.
  • Represent the interests of your members
  • Represent The Christie in the community, engaging with members
  • Appoint or remove the Chairman and Non-executive directors
  • Approve the appointment of the Chief Executive
  • Approve the remuneration of the Chairman and Non-executive directors
  • Appoint or remove the Auditors of The Christie
  • Receive the annual report and accounts

Who can be a governor?

You must be a member of The Christie - you can join before the nominations close if you are not already a member. You must be 16 years or over and you must live in the public area you wish to represent. If you move out of the public area you are serving during your term of office you will have to step down.

How much time is involved in being a governor?

As a minimum governors need to be able to attend:

  • Most council of governors meetings. These are held 4 or 5 times a year
  • The annual members meeting held in July each year
  • Any necessary governor related training you wish to undertake, circulated by the Trust
  • Committee or project meetings - about 4 per year
  • Community engagement - several meetings in your local area with local groups and organisations to discuss their needs

How to become a governor

If you are interested in being a governor, we are currently running elections in some of our constituencies. Please see the Governor elections page for more information.

If you would like to discuss this further, please contact the returning officer at Civica Election Services, The Election Centre, 33 Clarendon Road, London, N8 0NW.