Ambulance Trust Governors play key role in representing communities and staff
Governors at the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) play an important role in representing the interests of local communities, staff and partner organisations, helping to ensure the ambulance service remains accountable to the people it serves.
As part of this role, Trust Governor for Bath and Bristol, Mark Shelford, recently visited the Trust's ambulance station in Bath to meet frontline crews and learn more about their day-to-day roles.
The visit provided an opportunity for Mark to speak directly with operational colleagues, including Operations Manager, Oliver Dalton and Clinical Team Manager, Oliver Bourton, about current pressures and the work taking place locally to support staff and patients.
Mark said: "The visit provided valuable insight into the realities of frontline ambulance work. The professionalism, commitment and good humour of the crews were evident throughout the visit.
"Despite operational pressures, they remain completely focused on delivering the best possible care for the community.
"As a Governor, it's important for me to visit local teams to understand their reality of working for the service, this really helps me support the work of the Council."
SWASFT's Council of Governors represents the views of the Trust's members, staff and local stakeholders. Governors also have a formal responsibility to hold the Trust's Non-Executive Directors to account for the performance of the Board of Directors.
Most Governors are elected by the Trust's public and staff membership, while others are appointed by partner organisations such as local authorities and health partners.
Together, they act as an important link between the ambulance service and the communities it serves. Governors represent the interests of members, the public and staff, while also sharing information about the Trust's vision, services and performance with the communities and organisations they represent.
Before becoming a SWASFT Governor, Mark previously served as Police and Crime Commissioner for Avon and Somerset and was also a member of the Avon Fire Authority, working closely with emergency services across the region.
The Trust's Council of Governors currently includes 26 members, made up of 16 public Governors, six staff Governors and four appointed Governors.
More information about the Council of Governors is available on the Trust website:
https://www.swast.nhs.uk/council-of-governors