Members of Airedale NHS Foundation Trust will soon be able to stand for election to become a Governor, with nominations opening on 16th March.
Governors are part of the Trust’s Council of Governors, which includes public, staff and stakeholder representatives.
Public governors represent the areas where they live and help ensure the views of their local communities are considered in discussions about the Trust’s work and future plans.
The Trust is currently seeking Public Governor nominations from the following areas:
- Bingley Rural
- Ilkley and Wharfedale
- Bingley
- Pendle East and Colne
- Settle and Mid-Craven
- Skipton
- Rest of England
A staff governor nomination is also being sought from the Allied Health Professionals and Scientists staff group.
Governors take part in a range of activities including attending Council of Governors meetings, Board meetings and the Trust’s annual members’ meeting, which are held in public.
They also share feedback from members, comment on the Trust’s plans and priorities, and approve the appointment of the Chair and Non-Executive Directors.
Linda Dobson said she first became interested in the role after seeing an advert and feeling her personal experience could be useful.
“Having had an intense few months of hospital attendance when my parents were ill, I felt I had some knowledge of the NHS and its workings and could make a useful contribution using my experiences,”.
“The Trust really does value public feedback, both positive and negative.
"I feel my contributions have an impact.”
She added that with plans progressing for a new hospital and wider changes in the NHS, it is an important time for people to become involved.
The Chair of the Trust, Sarah Jones, said the organisation is encouraging members to consider standing.
“It’s a fantastic time to be a Governor as we gather momentum on our journey to building a new hospital, introduce an electronic patient record and work with partners to deliver high quality services for our population.
“We would love to hear from members who have an interest in the Trust, can contribute time to get involved as a Governor and act as a key link between Airedale and members of the public.”
The nominations stage runs from Monday, 16th March until Wednesday, 8th April.
If more than one candidate stands in a constituency, voting will take place from 29th April to 20th May, with results announced on 21st May. Successful candidates will begin their roles on 1 June 2026.
To stand for election, candidates must be aged 16 or over and a member of the Trust. Further information about the election process and becoming a member is available on the Trust’s website.
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