Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust Welcomes New and Re-elected Governors

In a significant announcement this month, Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust has introduced a blend of both familiar and new faces to its Council of Governors.

The Trust, which is renowned for providing a comprehensive suite of mental health and physical health services across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, is embracing the change with the election of four new governors and the re-election of two.

Among the newcomers are Andy Jago and Alison Shaw, who will serve the Trust’s East Constituency. Andy, a retired third-generation psychiatric nurse with a rich history of involvement with the Trust, previously served as one of its first Governors, representing the Staff Constituency. His return marks a commitment to championing the voice of patients and carers. Alison, who originally joined the Council of Governors in 2019, brings her experience back to the fold after a period away following her retirement and return to Cornwall.

The Trust is also pleased to announce the re-election of Hannah Snelling and Nigel Walker, representing the East and West Constituencies respectively, ensuring continuity and experience in the Council.
Joining the Staff Constituency are Richard Laugharne and Helen Woods. Richard, a semi-retired Consultant Psychiatrist and Head of Research, alongside Helen, Head of Pharmacy, are poised to contribute their extensive knowledge and expertise to the governance of the Trust.

Margaret Schwarz, who chairs both the Trust’s Council of Governors and Board of Directors, expressed her enthusiasm about the new and returning members: “I am delighted to welcome Alison, Andy, Helen, and Richard to the Council of Governors and to welcome back Hannah and Nigel. They each bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Trust and are all great additions to our Council of Governors”.

The Trust also took the opportunity to extend its gratitude to Barry, Fi, Mike, and Zoe for their significant contributions during their tenure on the Council.

Governors play a pivotal role within the Foundation Trust, acting as representatives for the views of patients, the public, staff, and partners. They serve as a crucial link between the Trust and the communities it serves, in addition to holding Non-Executive Directors accountable for the Board’s performance.

The Trust’s Council of Governors consists of 19 members, comprising 11 public governors, 4 staff governors, and 4 appointed governors, representing key stakeholders including Cornwall Council, the Council of the Isles of Scilly, Truro and Penwith College, and Volunteer Cornwall.

This fresh cohort of governors, with their varied backgrounds and experiences, stands ready to guide the Trust in continuing to provide exceptional health services to the community, underscoring the vital role of governance in ensuring the health and well-being of the population it serves. Find out more about hte governors here.