Fantastic response from public in Trust’s bid for NHS Foundation Hospital status

12 March, 2004

West Suffolk Hospitals NHS Trust has received a fantastic response from the public in its bid for NHS Foundation Hospital status. So far almost 6,000 local people have registered an interest in becoming members of the new NHS Foundation Trust.

“The response from the public has been very positive,” said Jessica Watts, Director of Strategy. “One of the main aims of the NHS Foundation Trust reforms is to encourage local people to become members and have a direct say in the future of their hospital services. This is a great opportunity for the public to have real influence over the way that healthcare is delivered in their town.”

“It is very encouraging that we have had such a good response so quickly,” said Chairman Veronica Worrall. “This is an indication of the high regard which the local community has for the West Suffolk Hospital.”

More than 100,000 leaflets about the Foundation bid were printed and sent to patients, carers, members of the public and Trust staff.  All the public documents contain forms that people can fill in and return to the hospital as an expression of their interest in becoming members of the new NHS Foundation Trust.

The ten-week consultation process was launched on 21^st February and continues until the end of April. The Trust will then make a final application for Foundation status, and will hear in July if this has been successful.

“When we hear if we have successfully been granted NHS Foundation Hospital status, we will contact all those people who have registered an interest to invite them to take part in the election of representatives to the Council of Members,” said Jessica Watts.  “If you have not yet registered and would like to have your say in the future direction of care at the West Suffolk Hospital, telephone 01284 713000 and ask for the NHS Foundation Trust office.”