Focus group: navigating uncertainty around councils of governors

In the 10 year health plan (p.83), the government announced that 'Foundation Trusts (FTs) will no longer be required to have governors’. From further conversations with NHS England and the Department for Health and Social Care, we understand that the proposal is to bring forth legislation to remove councils’ statutory powers. We expect the new bill to be enacted/come into force on 1 April 2027.

This shift presents immediate and medium-term challenges for governors, councils and boards. Navigating the transition period effectively is important: understanding the statutory requirements in the interim, minimising expenditure and effort, and determining what support governors need to continue fulfilling their role effectively until legislative change occurs. Many governors may be unsure how to plan, what their responsibilities will look like over the next few years, or how best to support their boards during this period of change. Those working with governors will need to be mindful of the corporate governance implications, costs and other practical issues that this uncertainty creates.

To support foundation trusts through this evolving landscape, NHS Providers is convening a focus group to hear directly from those responsible for FT governance and/or who work with governors on the support, guidance and resources they need. The outputs will inform the content of a learning guide and learning event next year.

We would be very grateful for your insights.

In this online focus group, we will bring together those who work with governors and/or who are responsible for FT corporate governance from across the provider sector to discuss your perspectives, priorities and concerns around the future of Councils of Governors.

We’ll explore:

• What support and advice you would find useful during the period leading up to the implementation of new legislation.
• Key issues likely to arise for governors, councils and FT boards between now and 2027.
• What you would find most valuable in a practical guide for boards and councils to support you through the transition.

• Corporate governance leads of FTs
• Chairs of FTs
• Chief executives of FTs
• Non-executive directors of FTs (senior independent directors in particular might be interested)

We would be grateful if you could express interest in attending the session so that we can ensure good representation from across sectors and levels of experience. Please note that expression of interest does not guarantee your place. Places will be confirmed in advance of the event, but please do hold the slot in your diary in the meantime.

This event is exclusive to NHS Providers members and free to attend as part of your trust’s membership. Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended.