Nominations are now open for Dorset County Hospital's 2024 governors elections.

The Dorchester-based hospital is looking for new governors to help shape the future of local services across the county.

There are vacant seats for governors in the following constituencies: west Dorset, Weymouth and Portland, north Dorset, Purbeck, east Dorset, Christchurch, Poole and Bournemouth; and south Somerset/rest of England. There are also two staff vacancies.

The council of governors plays a key role in representing the views of the trust’s members and the public – providing a bridge between the hospital and the communities it serves.

The governors also have a duty to hold non-executive directors to account for the performance of the board of directors. They are also involved in helping to shape the hospital’s strategy.

Governors are required to attend four formal council of governors’ meetings a year.

In addition, there are opportunities to join a range of committees focused on the constitution, membership, strategy and nominations.

Dorset County Hospital lead governor Kathryn Harrison said: "Being a governor gives me an important link between the hospital and the community it serves.

"I can represent the views of the public and ensure the things that are important to people are heard where it matters.

"It is an interesting and rewarding role and I would urge anyone who has an interest in Dorset County Hospital to stand for election."

UK Engage are managing this election on behalf of Dorset County Hospital.

If you would like to nominate yourself, please complete a nomination form via nom.uk-engage.org/dorsetcounty, paper copies are also available to download on the website.

Nominations for this election will close at 5pm on Wednesday, May 22.

For more information visit www.dchft.nhs.uk/membership/governor-elections