Trust Membership

Becoming a Member of the Trust

Residents and patients in areas served by an NHS Foundation Trust, as well as staff, can register as members of the organisation.

Membership allows local communities to have social ownership of their NHS Foundation Trust. Membership numbers are increasing all the time, strengthening the links between hospitals and the local community.

Members are able to stand and vote in elections for Governors of the NHS Foundation Trust and can expect to receive regular information about the Trust and be consulted on plans for its services and future development.

NHS Foundation Trusts have a duty to engage with local communities and encourage local people to become members and ensure that the membership is representative of the communities they serve. They need to demonstrate that the full range of potential members' interests is represented, and there is a proper balance between different groups.