Beyond councils of governors: rethinking public accountability

Foundation Trusts (FTs) have a council of governors as their statutory link to members and the public. However, non-FTs, community providers and integrated care boards do not have councils of governors and so have alternative accountability mechanisms in place. 

The government has announced its intention to remove the requirement to have councils of governors in forthcoming health legislation. While the aim is to pass new legislation by the end of March 2027, this is by no means certain. Considering this proposed change, it is important that boards consider how they remain accountable to the patients, foundation trust members and communities they serve. 

This peer learning event will provide attendees with a safe space to explore and discuss practical and robust alternatives that ensure boards remain accountable, legitimate and responsive to their communities.  

This event will bring together NHS leaders to:

• Learn from organisations that have embedded lived experience and patient safety roles into formal decision-making
• Share good practice in patient and public accountability beyond councils of governors
• Discuss alternative governance and accountability mechanisms in facilitated breakout discussions
• Understand how councils of governors have historically enabled the public/ patients to hold the board to account
• Explore the strengths and limitations of lived experience and patient safety partner roles as alternative accountability mechanisms through peer learning and discussion
• Leave with practical ideas and questions to take back to boards

• Chairs and non-executive directors
• Chief executives and executive directors
• Heads of governance, quality, patient experience and engagement

This event is exclusive to NHS Providers members and free to attend as part of your membership.

Register now to express your interest in our event. Please note this does not guarantee you’re booking as spaces are subject to availability.