If you’re passionate about local mental health and community services, consider nominating yourself to become an NHS Governor at Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust.
What do governors do?
Governors play a vital role in helping the Trust understand public views on our services. They represent the interests of both the community and the Trust members who elected them. Governors also work alongside the board of directors to monitor progress and ensure the Trust’s plans and priorities are delivered effectively.
What vacancies are open for election?
This year, we have 15 vacancies available across the public, patient, and carer constituencies.
| Constituency | Class | Seat/s |
| Public | Buckinghamshire | 3 |
| Public | Oxfordshire | 3 |
| Public | Rest of England & Wales | 1 |
| Patient Service Users | Carers | 2 |
| Patient Service Users | Buckinghamshire & Other Counties | 3 |
| Patient Service Users | Oxfordshire | 3 |
Become of member
To stand as a candidate or vote in our governor elections, you must be a member of the Trust. Membership is free, comes with no obligations, and allows you to get involved as much as you like.
You must be a member of Oxford Health by Friday, 28 March.
Sign up on our website at Get involved – Membership
Where can I stand?
If you are unsure which constituency to stand in, please email FT.MembershipCommunity@oxfordhealth.nhs.uk and we’ll check this for you.
Who can become a Governor?
No specific experience, background, or formal qualifications are required to be a Governor—just your interest and enthusiasm. You also need to be a member of the Trust.
All our staff are automatically enrolled as members if they have:
- A permanent contract
- A fixed-term contract of 12 months or more
- Been continuously employed by the Trust under a contract of employment for at least 12 months
If you’re unsure of your membership status, please email FT.MembershipCommunity@oxfordhealth.nhs.uk and we’ll check it for you.
Why should I stand?
By standing as a Governor, you’ll be at the heart of the Trust’s decision-making process, advocating for your staff class and working for the benefit of the entire Trust.
You’ll have the opportunity to influence the Trust’s strategic direction, collaborating with the Board and fellow governors. This role allows you to bring your priorities forward, deepen your understanding of the Trust and the NHS, and gain valuable new skills.
The Council of Governors election is a key event in the Trust’s corporate calendar. Nominate yourself to make a meaningful difference.
Candidate information online events
Join us to learn first-hand what governors do, the responsibilities of the role, and the time commitments involved.
These friendly, informal events give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
You can join these virtual events via Microsoft Teams:
Other ways to nominate
If you would prefer a hard copy or easy-read nomination form, please contact the Returning Officer, Ciara Hutchinson.
- Telephone: 020 8889 9203
- Email: ftnominationenquiries@cesvotes.com
- Text: Text “2FT OF” followed by your name and address to 88802
- Post: Civica Election Services, 33 Clarendon Road, London N8 0NW
Election enquiries
The elections are run independently from the Trust by an external company Civica. If you have questions about the nominations, contact the Returning Officer, Ciara Hutchinson.
You can also contact our membership team at ft.membershipcommunity@oxfordhealth.nhs.uk
Help with your decision
To help you decide, we’ve compiled answers to some common questions that candidates may have. You can view the Candidate’s Frequently Asked Questions by visiting the FAQ page.
Published: 28 February 2025