2 November 2020

Please note: this news article is in our archive. Articles were correct at time of publication, but should not be relied on for accuracy after the passage of time.

Our Council of Governors has agreed to resume the elections which were postponed earlier this year and we are now launching the process to find people who would like to stand for election to one of our fourteen public governor vacancies. This is an opportunity for you to represent the public constituency and be involved in scrutinising decisions taken by the Board and Council of Governors.

What is a governor?

Governors have an important role in making an NHS foundation trust publicly accountable for the services it provides. They bring valuable perspectives and contributions to its activities. Governors hold non-executive directors to account for the performance of the board and represent the interests of NHS foundation trust members and the public. Governors are volunteers and are not paid. You can find out more in the Brief guide for governors .

Can I stand as a public governor?

You can stand if:

• you are a member of the Trust
• you are at least 18 years of age
• you reside in the electoral wards of Kent, Surrey, Sussex or South London (as defined in the Trust’s Constitution)
• you have attended a pre-election event (see below)
• you complete the self-nomination form by the deadline and according to instructions
• you are not already a foundation trust governor elsewhere, or, if you are, are prepared to resign if elected.

Standing as a governor is a decision which will need some thought and all potential candidates need to attend a pre-election briefing about the role. You will also need to prepare a statement explaining to other members why you wish to stand.

No experience of being a governor is necessary, just commitment, enthusiasm and some spare time (approximately a half to full day each month depending on your level of involvement). Governors are not paid, but, where appropriate, receive travel expenses so that their support for the trust does not leave them out of pocket.

When are the pre-election events?

If you are interested in standing, you need to come to one of our pre-election events.  These will be held via Teams and are scheduled for:

• Monday 2 November 4-5pm
• Thursday 5 November 5-6pm
• Monday 9 November 11-12noon
• Thursday 12 November 10:30 – 11:30am

These meetings are an essential part of deciding to stand for the role. You will hear from Beryl Hobson, QVH chair, other members of the Board, some of our current governors and members of the Corporate Affairs team. This will provide you with a good insight into the governor role at QVH.

If you would like to come along please let Hilary Saunders, Deputy Company Secretary know via email Hilary.Saunders1@nhs.net of or call ext. 4200

When are the elections?

The election itself will take place between 18 December 2020 and 12 January 2021. The new governors will take up their role from 1 February 2021.

You can see more on our public website https://www.qvh.nhs.uk/for-members/