Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust looking for new governors to shape future plans

Professor Eileen Fairhurst MBE, chairman of the NCA

The Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust is looking for new governors to help shape the future of health and social care.

The NCA’s Council of Governors elections opens on 31 July, with 16 vacancies (nine public and seven staff) across Rochdale (two public, one staff), Bury (three public, two staff), Oldham (two public, two staff) and Salford (two public, two staff).

The role of a governor is important, ensuring the views of the wider community are considered in providing and developing the Trust’s services. It’s your chance to get involved and represent the interests of those you work with and live with.

Governors do not need any special qualifications, just enthusiasm, and a desire to make a difference.

The activities you will get involved in as a governor include:

• Representing the interests of members of the trust and the public - you will play a hugely important role by engaging with our communities to make sure that health and social care services continue to improve for your friends, family and neighbours
• Be consulted/contribute to the future plans of the trust – you will have the opportunity to positively contribute to the future plans of the local health and social care economy and bring about real change
• Hold the non-executive directors individually and collectively to account for the performance of the board of directors - governors do not undertake operational management of the trust, rather they provide appropriate challenge to the board
• Appoint or remove the chairman and non-executive directors
• Decide on the remuneration of the chairman and non-executive directors
• Approve the appointment of the chief executive officer

Professor Eileen Fairhurst MBE, Chairman of the NCA, said: “I would encourage anyone with an interest in health to consider being a governor for their local area; it is a great way to ensure their views are heard and considered in our future plans.

“You’ll get to link up with patients and NHS staff, and your work will make a real difference to their experience of healthcare.”

Drop-in sessions with more information are taking place:

• Friday 28 July: 1.30pm – 3pm, Hope Building, Salford Royal (outside M&S)
• Tuesday 1 August: 1pm – 2.30pm, Main Entrance, Fairfield General Hospital
• Friday 4 August: 11am – 12.30pm, Main Entrance, The Royal Oldham Hospital

Alternatively, please visit the Council of Governors webpage; the Civica Election Services page, or contact the Membership Team by email: membership@nca.nhs.uk or by calling: 01706 517302.

Please note, you will have to become a Foundation Trust member in order to be a governor. Membership is made up of patients, families and local residents with an interest in the Trust and the services provided. It also includes  staff and representatives from partner organisations in the local area.

It's free to become a member and how much you choose to take part is up to you. Find out more, including how to become a member, on the Governors and Members page on the NCA website.