I am interested in being a Governor. What/Who are Governors

They are elected from the membership to represent the views of members on the Board of Governors. 

What do I need to do become a Governor

You will need to be a member of the Foundation Trust. 

Can I attend a Board of Governor meeting to find out more about what they do?

Yes.  The next Board of Governors meeting is Wednesday 20th January in the Conference Room, Field House, Bradford Royal Infirmary.  The meeting and agendas are on the Trust’s website at www.bradfordhospitals.nhs.uk 

Do Governors get paid?

No.  Foundation Trusts are not allowed to pay Governors a wage.  However, Governors can claim travelling and other expenses (associated with caring costs) incurred by Governors in the course of their duties.    The Foundation Trust has an expense policy which defines the process and procedures.

Do I need to have any previous experience?

No you do not need to have any previous experience as a Governor. 

Do I need to have any qualifications?

No.  You do not need to have any qualifications

Can I be a Governor if I am a Governor or Director elsewhere or hold a public office elsewhere?

Yes, in the majority of cases you can, as long as you declare your interests on the form.  The form will tell you of the few instances in which you cannot be a Governor.

Will I receive any training?

Yes.  If you are elected we will find out about your individual skills and knowledge when you start as a Governor.  We will provide an induction for you and also identify what individual training and development needs you have.

How much time will I have to give?

You will be required to attend all Board of Governor meetings. There are four of these a year and they last for approximately 2 hours. 

As well as attending Board of Governor meetings you will be asked to give some extra time to sit on a Governor Working Group.  Membership of these groups is voluntary and decisions made and actions decided are on behalf of all the Governors.  There are some groups that will need to meet only once, some will meet only a few times and some are groups that meet quarterly throughout the year.

On average the commitment works out at approximately 3 hrs per Governor per month.

How long is a Governor’s term of office?

Three years

Do I have to give notice if I want to stop being a Governor?

You can stop being a Governor at any time by giving notice in writing to the Board Secretary.