What is a foundation trust?

An NHS foundation trust is an NHS trust that has gained a degree of independence from the Department of Health and the local NHS strategic health authority.

A foundation trust is still part of the NHS and subject to NHS standards, including inspection by the independent Care Quality Commission. It is overseen by an independent regulator, Monitor, which ensures that foundation trusts meet their obligations to patients, communities and taxpayers.

Due to its consistently strong performance over several years, Frimley Park Hospital achieved foundation trust status on 1 April 2005 and as such is accountable to its local community and aims to have representative membership of its catchment area. As a foundation trust hospital, we offer patients, staff and the general public the opportunity to become members and so have a say in how their hospital is run.

Members are entitled to vote in governor elections, take part in consultations and events, and receive regular information about the trust. You can join here!

Since 2005, the greater financial freedom which foundation trust status brings has enabled Frimley Park Hospital to invest in even better services and facilities including a dedicated, modern eye unit, a cardiac centre and expanded critical care facilities. We have recruited more senior clinicians, including consultants, to boost frontline services and increase our range of specialist treatments. In 2010 we plan to start work on a £20 million extension to our emergency department, including a helicopter landing pad and extra day surgery facilities.

Frimley Park is your hospital. Become a foundation trust member for free and have your say in how your hospital is run.