Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust is encouraging local people to nominate themselves in its forthcoming governor elections which open on Wednesday 3 March 2021. The nominations are an opportunity for members of the public who are also Trust members to put themselves forward for a seat on the Trust’s council of governors.

This year, there are 10 governor seats open to the public across six constituencies across the district: three each in Bradford East and Bradford West, and one each in Bradford South, Keighley, Craven and Shipley.

Governors play a key role within the Trust as the voices of their communities. The council of governors represents the views of local people to the Trust Board, ensuring that these are considered when the Board is making key decisions, and have statutory duties including appointment of the non-executive directors including the chair of the Trust to the board of directors.

For members of the public to apply for the role of governor, they must be members of the Trust. Membership is free and people can complete a membership form online. All members will receive invitations to healthcare talks and events and are eligible to vote in the Trust’s governor elections.

The Trust’s Lead Governor, Nicky Green, said: “Being a Governor is a rewarding, interesting and valuable role. We act as the voice of the public at meetings, influencing the Trust Board and its work to provide the best service possible to our service users. We provide some public feedback on service provision and act as a critical friend. Everyone’s voice is important; if you are interested, you can apply to become a governor and your input will be valued.”

Members of the Trust who are interested in becoming a governor will be able to complete and submit a nomination form between Wednesday 3 March and Thursday 18 March via the Trust’s website: www.bdct.nhs.uk/about-us/our-council-of-governors/become-a-governor/. For more information contact the Trust’s membership office on 01274 363552 or ft@bdct.nhs.uk, or visit the Trust website: www.bdct.nhs.uk.