Sheffield Teaching Hospitals are looking for members of the community to join the team of Trust Governors. Becoming a Governor is an exciting opportunity to support your local community by representing the needs and views of patients and the public. Governors work with the Board and have an active say in how our Hospital’s services are developed and how the organisation is managed. They represent the views of the 8,800 Sheffield public and patients who have registered to become a Member of the Trust.
The next Elections are coming up on 24 May and anyone who is interested in finding out more about this important role should contact Jane Pellegrina, Foundation Trust Membership Manager as soon as possible. Information and briefing sessions (details will be provided with nomination packs) are being provided but here are the answers to some frequently asked questions:
What is a Governor?
As a Governor you will play a very important role. You will act as a link between the Trust Members and the Board of Directors. You will have a number of key responsibilities, such as:
• helping to plan for the future
• ensuring the Trust is accountable to patients and local people
• recruiting and encouraging new members
• Influencing decisions by sitting on and contributing to various committees
An effective Governors’ Council is crucial to the success of the Trust and we will help you develop the skills you need to carry out your role as Governor.
What will my responsibilities be as a Governor?
1. to bring new ideas about how services can be improved and provided in ways that meet the needs of patients
2. to discuss strategic plans and new developments
3. to share information about key decisions with other Trust Members
4. to represent the interests of Trust Members (other members of your local community)
5. to appoint the Chairman and Non-Executive Directors
6. to set the pay levels for the Chairman and Non-Executive Directors.
Will I get paid?
No, similar to a school governor you do not receive a salary but you are paid expenses.
Do I need any special skills or experience?
You do not need any particular skills or experience but a passion for making NHS services better will help you enormously. The Governors elected will be supported by staff from within the Trust who are experienced in public involvement and communication. You will also be working alongside staff Governors and those appointed by the local councils, other parts of the NHS and the voluntary sector. The Governors meet regularly as a group and often work as a team.
How will the Elections be run?
We have appointed the Electoral Reform Service to run our elections for us. As well as making sure that we follow a robust process, it also means that the Elections are independent. We will give notice of an Election and invite any nominees (people who wish to stand as governors) to register their interest.
Anyone putting themselves forward will be asked to answer some simple questions. This information will be included on our website, and on the voting papers which are sent to all Members. Once the closing date is reached the votes are counted and we will then announce the results publicly.
Will support be available?
We are happy to discuss any training or support that you may need to help you stand as a Governor, or to fulfil the role should you be elected.
How much time is needed to fulfil the role of a being a Governor?
A Governor is expected to attend the quarterly Governors’ Council Meetings (the expectation is that you will attend at least 3 out of 4) and the Annual General Meeting. All Meetings are held at the Hospitals. Time will also be required to read papers provided for each meeting. Apart from these minimum expectations, there are many opportunities to participate in committees, visits and other activities such as recruiting Members, all of which contribute
to making the Governor’s role useful and interesting. The amount of time a Governor spends in the role is entirely up to him/her and may only become clear after several months in post. Attendance at induction and training events will be required.
How long will my appointment last?
An appointment as a Governor will be for a three year term up to a maximum of 2 terms.
Are there rules I have to follow? How will I know if I’m doing it right?
We will give you the training and support you need to be an effective Governor.
If you are interested in finding out more please call Jane Pellegrina on
0114 2714322 or email jane.pellegrina@sth.nhs.uk
