The Role of Governors in NHS Foundation Trusts Neil Ashford, Karen OSullivan, Gillian Oaker and Duncan Double; Staff Governors, Norfolk & Waveney Mental Health NHS Trust

NHS Foundation Trusts Public institututions

NHS Foundation Trusts Public institututions But not subject to direction by Secretary of State

NHS Foundation Trusts Public institututions But not subject to direction by Secretary of State or Department of Health performance management requirements

NHS Foundation Trusts Set own strategy within context of contracts with purchasers, especially primary care trusts

NHS Foundation Trusts Set own strategy within context of contracts with purchasers, especially primary care trusts Can borrow commercially, retain surpluses (but can also become insolvent) and invest to serve local needs

NHS Foundation Trusts Authorised and monitored by Monitor - Independent Regulator of NHS Foundation Trusts

NHS Foundation Trusts Authorised and monitored by Monitor - Independent Regulator of NHS Foundation Trusts Accountable to local people, who can become members and governors

Board of Governors Elected governors constituencies:

Board of Governors Elected governors constituencies: Public

Board of Governors Elected governors constituencies: Public Users and carers

Board of Governors Elected governors constituencies: Public Users and carers Staff

Board of Governors Elected governors constituencies: Public Users and carers Staff Appointed governors – partner organisations

Board of Governors Elected governors constituencies: Public Users and carers Staff Appointed governors – partner organisations Chair is also chair of Board of Directors

Governors statutory roles These include appointing, removing and deciding the terms of office of the chair and other non-executive directors, and approving the appointment of the chief executive;

Governors statutory roles These include appointing, removing and deciding the terms of office of the chair and other non-executive directors, and approving the appointment of the chief executive; appointing and removing the auditor

Governors statutory roles These include reviewing the annual accounts, auditors report and annual report at a general meeting;

Governors statutory roles These include reviewing the annual accounts, auditors report and annual report at a general meeting; expressing a view on the boards forward plans for the NHS foundation trust.

Representing the constituency Boards of governors are expected to focus on ensuring NHS foundation trusts respond to the needs and preferences of stakeholders, especially local communities