Foundation Trust application approved

30 September 2006

Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has been licensed as an NHS Foundation Trust from October 1 by the independent regulator Monitor.

Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has been licensed as an NHS Foundation Trust from October 1 by the independent regulator Monitor.

Heather Lawrence, Chief Executive said: “We are delighted that our application for Foundation Trust status has been approved by Monitor because we believe strongly that this is the right option for the patients and staff of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.

“We are convinced that Foundation Trust status will lead to tangible benefits in patient care, by giving us the flexibility to maintain and develop services that are tailored to the needs of the local community that we serve.

“It will also enable us to become more accountable to our patients, local community and staff through our Foundation Trust membership and Members’ Council.”

Even before becoming a Foundation Trust, Chelsea and Westminster has made good progress in engaging its local community in the future of the hospital:

  • More than 14,000 patients, members of the public and staff have become  Foundation Trust members.
  • Elections for a Members’ Council of patients, public and staff were held in March – the Council will work with the Board of Directors as a ‘critical friend’ and help us to shape the way the Trust develops in future.

More than 300 Foundation Trust members attended the Trust’s recent Annual General Meeting which demonstrates the level of support for the hospital in the local community.

Notes to editors

For more information contact the press office on 020 7808 9899.

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George Vasilopoulos