Become a Governor
What Does a Governor Do?
Governors are largely elected by the membership, from amongst the membership. They are essential in amplifying the voices of our Members and the wider public. They advocate for our collective interests and ensure the Trust's Board is accountable to local people. In this statutory role, you will carry out important duties that support our mission to provide high-quality mental health service.
Who Can Be a Governor?
As a Member, you have the opportunity to stand for election as a Governor! This is your chance to join one of the largest mental health trusts in the country to help shape the future of mental health services in our community.
Why become a Governor?
- Be an advocate: Represent the voices of service users, carers, staff, and the public.
- Develop uour skills: Enhance your leadership and collaboration skills and broaden your knowledge while engaging with the Trust.
- Ensure accountability: Help ensure that our services meet the evolving needs of our diverse community.
The role of a Governor
The Governor role is a rewarding one! You’ll play a crucial role in ensuring the Trust serves our community effectively. Your key responsibilities will include:
- Representing the collective interests of members, service users, carers, and the wider community to the Trust and Board.
- Acting as an ambassador for the Trust and its membership.
- Participating in discussions that shape the development of our services.
- Attending quarterly Council of Governors meetings and the Annual Members Meeting.
- Approving the appointments of Non-Executive Directors and External Auditors.
- Holding Non-Executive Directors accountable for the Board's performance.
The role of a Governor
The Governor role is a rewarding one! You’ll play a crucial role in ensuring the Trust serves our community effectively. Your key responsibilities will include:
- Representing the collective interests of members, service users, carers, and the wider community to the Trust and Board.
- Acting as an ambassador for the Trust and its membership.
- Participating in discussions that shape the development of our services.
- Attending quarterly Council of Governors meetings and the Annual Members Meeting.
- Approving the appointments of Non-Executive Directors and External Auditors.
- Holding Non-Executive Directors accountable for the Board's performance.
We’re electing 21 Governors in the following categories:
- 11 Public Governors: Two each from Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey, and Islington, and one from the rest of London.
- Six Service User/Carer Governors
- Four Staff Governors
Time commitment
This voluntary role typically requires a commitment of up to two days per month. This allows you to engage with members, review meeting materials, and attend local events. Meetings are generally held in the evenings, making it a manageable.
Support and training
The great news is that you don’t need any specific skills or experience to be a Governor because you’ll have access to tailored training and ongoing support to help you thrive. So, whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out, we’re here to empower you every step of the way.
How to Apply
Details on how to nominate yourself will be available here soon. Once the nomination stage opens – currently expected on 1 November 2024 – information will also be sent to all our Members by email or post. If you’re not yet a Member but would like to vote or stand in the election, sign up now! It’s quick, easy, and free, plus you’ll gain access to a range of benefits. You can find out more about being a Member here.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please contact us at nlft.trust.secretary@nhs.net or call 020 3317 7017.
