A VACANCY has arisen in Settle and Mid Craven for someone to take up the post of governor with the Airedale NHS Foundation Trust.

The post has been vacant for some time, and although the way governors work for now has to be within coronavirus restrictions and guidelines, they are still active remotely, and keen to bring on board representation from all areas.

The trust, which runs Airedale Hospital, Castleberg Hospital, Coronation Hospital in Ilkley and Skipton Hospital, is accountable to its members, by way of the council of governors.

Governors include members of the public elected from the electoral constituencies in which they live; elected staff members, plus representatives from organisations such as local councils and the voluntary sector.

The council of governors works closely with the Board of Directors to develop strategy and plans, with governors creating an important link between the trust and members of the public.

Normally, the trust at this time of the year would be starting the process for governor elections, which take place every year in May. But, because of the coronavirus pandemic, elections have been postponed this year until 2022.

In the meantime, the trust is keen to hear from anyone interested in filling the Settle and Mid Craven vacancy.

Applicants need to live in the area, need to be at least 16 years old, and need to be a member of the trust, which is free and simple to join.

To find out more, email lead governor Karen Ellison, at karen.ellison@nhs.net, or visit: www.airedale-trust.nhs.uk/about-us/council-of-governors-and-foundation-trust/