GREAT Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is encouraging people to become Public Governors, to help shape the future of its services.

Public Governors provide an important link between the Trust, local people and the local health community and help to ensure the Trust provides the best service possible.

No experience is necessary; you just need to be over 18 and a Trust member to put yourself forward for election.

If you’re not a Trust member already, it’s free and easy to sign up by visiting gwh.nhs.uk/members-and-governors and completing the online form, or by contacting the Trust’s Membership Office on 01793 604185.

There are two Public Governor roles available, representing the Wiltshire North and Wiltshire Central Constituencies.

As a Public Governor, you will be expected to attend meetings and be comfortable communicating with local people.

Anyone interested in applying should contact the Returning Officer by calling 0208 889 9203.

All nomination papers should be received by the Returning Officer, John Box by 5pm on Monday, September 21. Members will have until 5pm on Thursday, October 29, to cast their vote.

Ros Thomson, the Lead Public Governor, said: “I enjoy being able to represent the views of the public and having an influence on how local healthcare services are run. You do need to have some time to commit to the role but it is very rewarding.”

To find out more about the role of the Public Governor, visit gwh.nhs.uk or contact Governance and Membership Officer Simon Denning on 01793 604185 or email simon.denning@gwh.nhs.uk