In October 2007 we became a Foundation Trust. Being a Foundation Trust means we have more autonomy over how we manage our services and finances, and means we can better involve our staff, service users, carers and local residents in shaping our plans and policies.

Foundation Trusts were introduced by legislation that came into force in November 2003. They are a new way of running health services, devolving decision-making from central government and, with greater freedom to be innovative, can develop partnerships with local organisations to provide services that are more responsive to the needs of the local community.

We are still very much part of the NHS but, with the input of our members and Council of Governors, we can listen and respond to the views and needs of local people.

As a Foundation Trust we have been able to deliver improvements in patient care, become more accountable to local people and strengthen our relationships with partner organisations to deliver a better range of services.

source = web site http://www.nepft.nhs.uk/your-trust/

NETSS Bureau

T: 01279 827 849

F: 01279 827 128

E: netss@nepft.nhs.uk