Would you like to make a difference?

Members of the local community are invited to put their names forward in Sherwood Forest Hospital’s Trust’s governor elections.

Nominations are now open and will close on Friday 26 May. Two public governors will be elected for Newark hospital, plus four for Rest of East Midlands, which includes people living in Mansfield and Ashfield.

Those interested in putting their name forward can register for an online information event hosted by Liz Barrett, current Trust governor and Claire Ward, Trust Chair. The event takes place on Thursday 18 May 6pm-7pm via Microsoft Teams and will give a more detailed insight into the role of a governor, along with the opportunity to ask questions. Interested parties can sign up for the event by following this link.

Governors have a key role to play to help the Trust achieve its ambitions of providing healthier communities and outstanding care to all. Forward-thinking people of all ages and backgrounds who represent the diverse communities served by the Trust’s King’s Mill, Newark and Mansfield Community hospital sites are encouraged to apply.

Sue Holmes, Lead Governor, said: “It’s so important to be engaged with the services of your local hospital and this is your chance to become involved and contribute to how it’s run. Our Governors do a vital job in upholding the views of the public and we are looking for people committed to improving services and putting across the views of the public. This is your hospital and we’d love for you to be a part of it.”

Governors should attend four Council of Governor meetings a year as well as the Annual General Meeting. There are also regular events and briefings such as Meet Your Governor events and community events, as well as the Governor Membership and Engagement Committee and the Governor Nomination and Remuneration Committee. The role is a voluntary position so successful candidates will not be paid, but they will receive expenses for travel to meetings.

Shirley Higginbotham, Director of Corporate Affairs, said: “There is so much to be proud of here at Sherwood and we welcome nominations from forward-thinking people who are passionate about ensuring the views of their local community are heard, along with a dedication to help us achieve our future plans. We are growing an open, inclusive and diverse culture and it’s an exciting time to join our Trust.”

Those who wish to become a governor must first become a member of the Trust. Sign up online at www.sfh-tr.nhs.uk/get-involved or email sfh-tr.membership@nhs.net.