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Become a governor

Governors help ensure the West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust (WSFT) is accountable to the people it serves. They represent the views of patients, carers, staff and the wider community, and play an important role in shaping how local NHS services are delivered.

You have until Tuesday, 6 October to submit a nomination to stand in the upcoming Council of Governor elections. We want to hear your views and for our communities to contribute to their local NHS services.

How to apply

The nomination period is open until Tuesday, 6 October, and nomination forms can be obtained from the Returning Officer in the following ways:

All nominations should be received by the Returning Officer, Ciara Hutchinson, at the address or website as detailed above, by 5pm on Tuesday 6 October 2026. Should any nominee wish to withdraw their nomination, they must put this in writing to the Returning Officer by 5pm on Friday 9 October 2026.

For all contested positions voting will open on Wednesday 28 October 2026. Voting will close at 5pm on Friday 20 November 2026. The Returning Officer for these elections is Ciara Hutchinson, Civica Election Services (address as above).

What is a governor?

A governor is a member of the community, staff, or a partner organisation who sits on the Council of Governors.

Governors:

  • represent the views of Trust members, staff and the wider community
  • listen to ideas, concerns and suggestions
  • help ensure these views are considered by the Trust
  • act as a link to the Board
  • influence the Trust’s long-term (strategic) direction.

About the Council of Governors

The Council of Governors works alongside the Trust’s leadership to help ensure we meet our goals and provide high-quality care.

There are 26 governors:

  • 14 public governors (elected)
  • 5 staff governors (elected)
  • 7 partner governors (appointed)

Partner governors are nominated from organisations we work with, including:

  • Suffolk County Council
  • West Suffolk Council
  • University of Cambridge
  • West Suffolk College
  • Friends of West Suffolk Hospital
  • Norfolk and Suffolk Integrated Care System.

What does the role involve?

Governors attend meetings and events, share information, and contribute to the Trust’s work.

You will:

  • represent members, colleagues and the local community
  • work in the best interest of the Trust
  • hold the Board to account.

Your activities may include:

  • appointing the chair and non-executive directors
  • approving the appointment of the chief executive officer
  • contributing to the Trust’s strategy
  • being involved in changes to local health services
  • speaking with the public at events and meetings.

Public governor, Sarah Hanratty said: “My role as a governor means I have the responsibility of representing the views of my community, which as a local NHS service user is something I find incredibly rewarding. I am also able to hold the Board to account, and I contribute to discussions around how our services are delivered.

“The last three years have been very insightful and full of transformative changes which have seen great improvements in our Trust’s performance. I would encourage anyone with an interest in their local health services to get involved.”

What skills and experience do I need?

You do not need any specific skills or qualifications. Training and support will be provided.

We are looking for:

  • enthusiasm
  • a willingness to represent others
  • an interest in local health services.

What support is available?

We offer a learning and development programme, including:

  • induction and onboarding
  • ongoing training and development.

You will receive an induction pack with key information.

How much time does it take?

You should be able to commit at least six hours per month. Some meetings take place outside standard working hours.

Will I be paid?

This is an unpaid role. However, you can claim reasonable expenses such as travel.

How long is the term?

The term of office is three years. You can stand for re-election but cannot serve more than nine years in total.

Membership and eligibility

If I work at the Trust, can I vote or stand?

Yes. Staff and volunteers automatically become members and can vote or stand for election.

If I provide a service or have an honorary contract, can I vote?

Yes. You can become a member and vote.

If I have a contract with the Trust, can I vote?

Yes.

Become a Foundation Trust member

Becoming a member gives you a voice in how your local NHS services are run.

Influence change. Support your local NHS.

Become a Foundation Trust member