PEOPLE are being given the chance to have their say in the running of Airedale NHS Foundation Trust.

A number of public governor seats are up for grabs across the district.

Nominations will open on Tuesday (March 19), and anyone aged 16 and over can stand.

Representatives are sought for Bingley, Bingley Rural, Craven, Ilkley and Wharfedale, Keighley West and Worth Valley, Settle and mid Craven, Skipton, South Craven and the Rest of England seat.

Trust bosses say the role of the governor is a hugely important one, providing a link between the hospital's board of directors and the public.

"Governors give a public voice from their individual constituencies and hold non-executive directors to account for the performance of the board," said lead governor, Jerry Stanford.

"It is a rewarding position and can give great satisfaction."

Twelve of the trust's 20 governors are public representatives. Of the remainder, four are staff governors and the rest come from partner organisations, such as councils.

Trust chairman, Andrew Gold, said the post enabled people to help shape future healthcare provision in their constituencies.

He added: "The governors represent the interests of members and the public following feedback received through involvement in a variety of events and open days, both at the hospital and at community venues.

"They attend the board meetings of the trust held in public and also have monthly and quarterly meetings with non-executive directors.

"As the NHS evolves, there is also interaction with governors from other trusts who – like Airedale – work together to make health services better for local people.

"With the NHS' ten-year plan published earlier this year, it is an exciting period and we would love to hear from those with the desire and time to get involved as a governor."

A series of events is being staged across the district to give people the opportunity to learn more about the trust's work and the role of governors.

They are at Canalside Medical Practice, Bingley, on Tuesday, from 2pm to 3.30pm; at the King's Hall, Ilkley, next Thursday, 2pm to 3.30pm; at the Dyneley Barn, Skipton, on Tuesday, March 26, 10am to 11.30am, and at Airedale Hospital on Thursday, March 28, 5.30pm to 7pm.

Further information can be obtained from the trust's membership office, by e-mailing members@anhst.nhs.uk or calling 01535 294540.