The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is looking for people to join the Trust’s Council of Governors by nominating themselves to be a Public Governor.

The Council of Governors plays a vitally important role by providing a direct connection between the Trust’s Board of Directors and its staff, patients, the community it serves and its partners. They appoint the Trust’s Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) and hold them to account, which includes observing their work and involvement in the appraisal process.

Governors have a wide range of experiences and backgrounds, but what they share is a real passion for helping to shape local health services in a way that best meets the needs of patients and the public. Public Governors work alongside Staff Governors and Appointed Governors from Devon County Council and the University of Exeter.

Dame Shan Morgan, Royal Devon Chair, said: “This is an exciting time to become a Governor at the Royal Devon. Our Trust is just over a year old, and I am really grateful for the valuable insights and perspectives the Governors have shared with me in my first year as Chair.

“Now, the Royal Devon has developed a strategy for the next few years and we’re working really closely with our partners across the Devon system, which will better enable us to address our challenges sustainably. Our Council of Governors will join us as we go forwards, ensuring we act in the best interests of our patients and wider communities. If you think you have something to offer, we want to hear from you.”

Barbara Sweeney, Lead Governor, said: “Being a Governor is so worthwhile. This voluntary role is suited to anyone as a past, current or future patient or carer- so that means every one of us!

“As a Council of Governors we work as a collective, making sure that the Board of Directors is focussing on what is important to us. It’s not about lobbying on individual issues – it’s an opportunity to be the voice of your community, and as an elected Governor, you have the mandate of your locality.”

To help people understand the role, the Trust has published an introductory guide and FAQs for those interested in becoming a Governor. These resources and details on how to nominate yourself are available on the Trust’s website at www.royaldevon.nhs.uk/about-us/foundation-trust-and-membership/council-of-governors/governor-elections

The Trust is also holding two information webinars with a panel of current Public Governors and Trust staff who support the work of the Council of Governors. Those who are interested in becoming a Governor can find out more about the role, hear from some of the current Governors, and ask any questions. The sessions will be held on Monday 10 July at 12 noon-1pm and Monday 17 July at 4.30pm-5.30pm. For joining information, please visit the Trust’s website.

There are currently 12 posts available for Public Governors on the Council of Governors. In the event that there are more nominations than posts available, the Trust will hold an election in August/September and ask its membership to vote for their preferred representatives. The elections are carried out on a non-party political basis.

In case an election is needed, the nomination process involves nominees setting out in writing why their experience and background would make them an effective Governor. The nomination period will open on Tuesday 18 July.

Those who are successfully elected to a post on the Council of Governors will take up their role at the end of September. Terms of office vary from one to three years. Governors can serve for a maximum of nine years in total.

Please note that if you wish to nominate yourself as a Public Governor, you will need to become a member of the Trust if you are not already.

For more information, please contact the engagement team at rduh.royaldevonmembers@nhs.net or on 01392 403977.