Press Release

25 June 2008

Last chance to have your say about the future of your local Hospital

Time is running out for members of the public to have their say on their local hospital’s proposal to become a Foundation Trust (FT).

Mid Essex Hospitals, who run Broomfield and St John’s hospitals in Chelmsford, have begun their journey to become a FT in early 2009. As part of the process the Trust is running a 12 week consultation process to give local people the chance to give their views about the future of the hospital.  The consultation finishes on Monday 7 July 2008.

David Cheesman, FT director said:” During the consultation period we want to hear from as many people as possible about our plans to become a FT.  We also want to seek their views on our plans for the future.  It is really important that we have the active participation from local people, as it will help us decide our future direction that they can play an active part in by becoming members of the hospital.  This is a great opportunity for people to get involved and help shape the future of their hospital for the next 20 years.”

As well as obtaining views from local people about becoming a FT the organisation also needs 3800 public and patient members. Members have a wonderful opportunity to shape the future of the hospital for the next 20 years.

David adds:” We have already have over 800 members already. However, we still have a long way to go to hit our target. That’s why we are encouraging people to take an active role in their local hospital by becoming one of our members.”
 
NHS Foundation Trusts are self governed organisation that have been created to devolve decision-making from central government control to local organisations and communities so they are more responsive to the needs and wishes of their local people.

Copies of the consultation document, together with a feedback form and an FT application for can be found on the Trust’s new website www.meht.nhs.uk/foundation-trust/apply-online.  For further information please contact the FT help line on 01245 514508 during normal office hours or e-mail ft@meht.nhs.uk

ENDS

Media contact : Jo Triggs tel: (01245) 514235 | Mobile : 0790 005 4948