Become a Governor

Foundation Trusts are based on membership with local people having a say through representation on a Council of Governors.

Why become a Governor?

• Have your say about local mental health and learning disability services.
• Influence who is on the Trust’s Board of Directors.
• Meet some great people and truly make a difference.
• Act as an ambassador for our Trust.

Who can become a Governor?

Anyone who is a member of the Trust and aged 16 years or over can stand for election as a Governor. Our Governors must also live in the designated constituency area.

Do I need any qualifications or experience to become a Governor?

You do not need to have any formal qualifications or previous experience to be Governor, all you need is to have a passion for improving mental health, community and learning disability services within the NHS. We will provide all of the help, training, and support that you need to carry out the role of a Governor.

Will I be paid to be a Governor?

Our Governors are not paid, but we are happy to repay any expenses.

How much time is required to fulfill my role as a Governor?

Governors are required to:

• make themselves available to undertake any training that the Trust decides is necessary;
• be available to attend all four of our formal Council of Governors meetings (half a day each);
• be available to attend our Annual Members Meeting in September;
• attend our full-day board to board workshop;
• spend time preparing for any meetings that they attend;
• be available to observe at our board sub-committee meetings to observe the work of the committee (optional);
• spend time engaging with members.