Kirklees people given opportunity to influence local NHS Trust

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South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, which provides mental health and learning disability services in Kirklees, is inviting local people to get involved and stand in their upcoming Members’ Council elections. There are two seats available in Kirklees.

 

Over 16,500 people have so far become members of the Trust across the areas it provides services in – Barnsley, Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield. Having a large membership helps the Trust work closely with local people to deliver services that meet the needs of local communities.

 

The Members’ Council represents the views of all members and ensures that the board of directors, which retains responsibility for the day to day running of the Trust, is accountable to the local community.

 

The Members’ Council is made up of publicly elected members, elected staff representatives and appointed representatives from key local partner organisations. The Council formally meets a minimum of four times a year.

 

The Trust is now inviting members in Kirklees to stand for one of the two available public seats in their constituency. Nominations must be made by Monday 11 March 2013 and nominated individuals must be a member of the Trust to be eligible to stand for election.

 

To become a member so that you can stand or vote in the upcoming elections contact the Trust’s membership office on 01924 327567 or email membership@swyt.nhs.uk

 

The Trust’s chairman Ian Black said, “Our members’ are key to reminding us that we are here to deliver services to people living in our local communities. Having a membership base which is substantive in number and in terms of the activities they are asked to get involved with, helps us to do this.

 

“Joining the Members’ Council is an excellent opportunity for members of the Trust to become actively involved in the way our Trust works, to influence our strategic direction and have a say in how we deliver services by holding our Trust Board to account. I would therefore encourage people in Kirklees to consider standing for one of the seats available on the Council.”

 

To ensure that the elections are completely independent and transparent, they are conducted by the Electoral Reform Service (ERS). Contact ERS with any questions about the elections on 0208 365 8909.

 

The election process will begin on 1 April 2013 and close at noon on 29 April 2013.

 

 

Kirklees people given opportunity to influence local NHS Trust

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