Do you want to represent patients, staff and your community? Elections are underway to find 10 new governors here at LSCft and we want to welcome those who are interested in advocating for those who matter to us.
The roles – which consist of nine public governors and one staff governor – are open to those aged 16 or above and applicants must be a member of the Trust, with membership currently standing at over 13,000 people.
Governors sit on a dedicated council and are considered the eyes and ears of the public, patients and staff. They are essential to help the Trust understand and respond to what patients and local residents expect from LSCft.
Applications are welcome from people of all backgrounds and experiences to ensure that the voice of our Council of Governors – made up of 23 elected representatives and four nominated by partners - is reflective of our diverse workforce and communities across all of Lancashire and South Cumbria.
What is involved in the governor role?
- Representing the views of staff, patients and the public, particularly in relation to the Trust’s strategic direction and when services are being developed.
- To hold the Non-Executive Directors to account for the performance of the Board of Directors.
- Review annually the extent to which the Trust is meeting its objective of delivering high-quality services.
- Work with the Board of Directors on other matters for the benefit of the Trust.
Current serving governor Phil Curwen, said:
“Having been a governor for six years myself, I can honestly say it’s a great opportunity and honour to work on behalf of the people who matter; service users, their families and carers, staff and communities, making sure their voices are heard and they are represented in everything that LSCft does.
“If you are interested in the direction of LSCft, are someone who likes to advocate on behalf of others and you would like to get involved in making a difference, you could be perfect for this type of work.”
Deputy Lead Governor, David Hargreaves, added:
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my three years as an LSCft public governor
“I have recently been involved in shortlisting for, and attending, the staff awards event in Lancaster and have undertaken a number of engagement visits to see first-hand the challenges and achievements of the hard working teams. I have also attended various hospital and site visits.
“Governors play a key role in ensuring the Trust maintains good governance; there is a programme of regular meetings and a number of committees that allow us to contribute and provide assurance that the Trust is operating in the best interests of both its members and the public. I have found that being a governor has given me a variety of experience, it’s been very rewarding."
The close of nominations is 5pm on Friday 18 November.
Representatives are being sought for the following areas:
- Central Lancashire – Four seats
- Fylde Coast - Two seats
- North Lancashire and South Cumbria – One seat
- Pennine – One seat
- Out of area – One seat
- Staff constituency - Nursing Professionals and Support Staff – One seat
Governors are elected for a three-year period, with the opportunity to stand for re-election for a second and final three-year term.
You can find out more about being a governor or a member online or by emailing company.secretary@lscft.nhs.uk
To apply, go to www.mi-nomation.com/lscft
