22/05/2026
People across Doncaster and North Nottinghamshire are being encouraged to step forward and stand as Governors in elections now open at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
The Trust is calling for individuals from all walks of life to consider the role, which plays a key part in ensuring local communities have a voice in how healthcare services are shaped and delivered.
Nominations are now open and will close on 5 June. Those wishing to stand must also be a Trust Member - details on how to sign-up are available at www.dbth.nhs.uk
Governors represent the views of patients, the public and our workforce, bringing valuable local insight to support the development of services across the organisation.
DBTH serves a population of more than 440,000 people across South Yorkshire, North Nottinghamshire and surrounding areas, employing over 7,300 colleagues and operating hospital sites in Doncaster, Bassetlaw and Mexborough.
As a teaching hospital, it also plays an important role in training future healthcare professionals and advancing research and innovation.
The Council of Governors is made up of elected public and staff representatives, alongside appointed partner Governors, and works collectively to hold Non-Executive Directors to account for the performance of the Board. They contribute to key decisions and ensure the Trust remains aligned with the needs of its communities.
Mark Bailey, Chair of the Board at DBTH, said: “Our role is to serve a diverse population and we are stronger as a Trust when we are able to listen to and work with Governors from all backgrounds and communities. This is an opportunity to be part of our resolve to be ‘Healthier together, delivering exceptional care for all’.
“Whether you’re working or retired, have experience in healthcare or none at all – your perspective matters. If you care about your local NHS and want to make a difference, I would strongly encourage you to consider putting yourself forward.”
Nine public Governor seats are available, with six representing Doncaster, two representing Bassetlaw and one the rest of England and Wales. The Trust is also looking for four Staff Governors.
Anyone aged 16 or over who is a member of the Trust can stand for election, with membership free to join, subject to meeting fit and proper person requirements and standard eligibility criteria. While no formal qualifications are required, candidates should be comfortable engaging with others, using email, and participating in meetings, some of which may take place online.
The election process is run independently to ensure fairness and transparency, with candidates invited to submit a short statement outlining why they wish to stand.
Those interested in standing can find further information and complete a nomination online at www.cesvotes.com/DBFT2026, or contact the Trust Board Office on 01302 644157 or via email at dbth.trustboardoffice@nhs.net
This is an opportunity for local people and our colleagues to play a direct role in shaping healthcare services and ensuring they reflect the needs and experiences of the communities they serve.
