Annual Report and Accounts - The Great Western Hospital

“Eyes and Ears” – An initiative known as “eyes and ears” is in place whereby the Governors identify
any issues of concern regarding the provision of services. Governors’ feedback issues they have
witnessed for themselves or those which have been reported to them.
Governor Working Groups – As referred to elsewhere in this report, there are a number of working
groups of the Council of Governors, the work of which is supported by staff and directors. The joint
working results in effective communication between the staff, directors and governors. Governors
have an opportunity to input directly into the workings of the Trust. On request, Non-Executive
Directors may attend meetings of working groups to provide information and receive feedback from
Governors directly.
Annual Members Meeting – This is formally held once per year, although in 2011/12 an informal
Annual Members Meeting was also hosted. The annual report and accounts are presented and a
briefing given on the overall performance of the Trust in the previous year. The Governors provide
feedback to the Board of Directors.
Chairman – The Chairman of the Trust attends most meetings of the working groups of the Council of
Governors. He listens to the comments raised at these meetings and he feeds them back to the
Board of Directors. In addition the Chairman meets monthly with the Lead and Deputy Lead
Governors to sound out their views on any matters currently being considered. The Lead and Deputy
Lead Governors are representatives of the Council of Governors. Their advice and input is
incorporated into the decision making process via the Chairman.
Governor involvement in events / activities – Governors are invited to attend a number of events
throughout the year. This provides an opportunity for Governors to be directly involved in the workings
of the Trust and to influence the decisions being made. Any comments arising out of these events are
fed back to the Directors. A few examples in 2011/12 are: -
• Weekly food tasting
• Menu less meals Ward visit
• Patient safety walkabouts by the Non-Executive Directors and Governors;
• Open Day / Annual Members Meeting Governor volunteer sought
• Membership development Governor volunteer sought
• Governor representative on Car Parking Advisory Group looking at car parking at the Great
Western Hospital site
• Governor representative on Nutrition Steering Group looking at hydration and nutrition
• Local study days
• Sensory Awareness Drop in Day
• Tour of community services and neighbourhood teams
• Governor Blog
Page 59 of 211