Healthcare governors sought

The trust is looking for individuals to put themselves forward for the 2015 elections of its Council of Governors and serve a three year term in which they can help guide and advise officials on the best way to meet the future health needs of the community.

Successful applicants will also work alongside Rotherham Clinical Commissioning Group, Rotherham Borough Council, Healthwatch, Care UK and local patients and staff to develop a first-of-its-kind new emergency centre — due to open in 2017.

The trust has seven vacancies for public Governors across Rotherham North, Wentworth South, Rother Valley West, Wentworth Valley and its Rest of England constituency, which covers areas outside the RMBC boundaries.

Nominations open next Wednesday (18), with elections taking place in April.

Anyone aged over 16 who lives in a constituency with a vacancy and has an interest in healthcare can become a Member of the Trust and stand for election.

Full training is provided and no NHS background is required.

Governors are required to attend a number of committees, meetings and events every year.

Lead governor Jean Dearden said: “Becoming a Governor is a fantastic opportunity to support positive changes to the services we offer to our patients and the local community.

“As a group, governors play a vital role working to ensure views and experiences of the patients, public and Trust Members are heard at Trust board level.

“These views are used to inform decisions made about the future planning for the trust’s strategic plans and development of its services.”

The trust will be holding an informal meeting for anyone interested in becoming a Governor from 2pm on Wednesday (18).

To confirm your attendance at the meeting, or for more information, contact Rebecca Ferguson, Membership and Corporate Affairs Officer, on 01709 427800 or via email to [email protected].