Monitor - Independant Regulator of NHS Foundation Trusts
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Code of Governance for NHS Foundation Trusts
Published on: 10 March 2010
The NHS Foundation Trust Code of Governance (the code) was first published in 2006. Following reviews in 2008 and 2009 of its application, and also taking account of more recent developments in governance practices specific to NHS foundation trusts, we have updated the code. This updated version will apply from 1 April 2010.
Download - Code of Governance for NHS Foundation Trusts - (594.86 KB)
Download - Summary of main changes from the original code published in 2006 (39.88 KB)
Effective corporate governance is a fundamental cornerstone for the success of every NHS foundation trust.
The purpose of the Code of Governance (the code) is to assist NHS foundation trust boards in improving their governance practices by bringing together the best practice of public and private sector corporate governance. The code sets out a common overarching framework for the corporate governance of NHS foundation trusts and complements the statutory and regulatory obligations on them.
This code is best practice advice. It is not mandatory guidance and accordingly, non-compliance with the provisions of the code will not in itself give rise to a breach of the terms of authorisation. NHS foundation trusts are, however, strongly encouraged to take full account of the best practice provisions described in this code.
The code does impose some specific disclosure requirements upon NHS foundation trusts and these are set out in 2a and 2b on page 7 of the code. NHS foundation trusts have been expected to observe in full the disclosure requirements of the code since March 2008.
The current code continues to be best practice and the requirements contained therein continue to apply in 2009-10. This updated version will apply from 1 April 2010.
