Health chiefs at East Surrey Hospital are celebrating after recruiting their 10,000th Trust member.
As part of its journey to become a foundation trust this year Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust (SASH), which runs the hospital, set itself a goal of recruiting 9,000 members. Just 18 months later membership has reached 10,200 and is growing every day.
SASH chief executive Michael Wilson said: “I want to thank everyone who has signed up so far. It’s fantastic to know we have the support of the people in the communities we serve. What is really important is that our members are already sharing their views at focus groups and events.”
A foundation trust is made up of members who can help shape the future development of health care in the area. Trust Membership is free and members can get involved as little or as much as they like. You may want to stand for election onto the Council of Governors or simply receive the members’ newsletter which will keep you updated on what’s happening in the Trust.
If you would like to find out more about membership or to fill in an online application form visit the Trust’s website at www.sussexandsussex.nhs.uk or e mail sashFT.membership@nhs.net
Foundation trusts are different from existing NHS Trusts because they are less accountable to central government and more accountable to local people through the membership.
NHS foundation trusts remain part of the NHS and remain free at the point of use. They are subject to NHS standards, performance ratings and systems of inspection.
