Become a member

Becoming a member is a simple, free way to stay connected with your local NHS and have a say in how services develop.

As a member of Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, you can receive updates, take part in events and surveys, vote in governor elections and, if you are eligible, stand to become a governor yourself.

You do not need any special knowledge of the NHS. Membership is about being interested in your local health and care services and wanting to stay involved.

Who can become a member?

Membership is free and open to people aged 14 and over who live in our membership area.

Our public membership area includes:

  • Torbay
  • South Hams
  • Teignbridge
  • Rest of the South West (Devon, Cornwall, Isles of Scilly, Somerset, Dorset, Bristol)

Our staff are also members unless they choose to opt out.

Why become a member?

As a member, you can:

  • stay up to date with news and developments from the Trust
  • receive information about events, meetings and opportunities to get involved
  • share your views and help us understand what matters to local people
  • vote in elections for public governors
  • stand as a governor if you are eligible
  • attend the Annual Members’ Meeting
  • find out more about careers, apprenticeships and opportunities in the NHS

Membership is free and there is no obligation to take part in anything. You can be as involved as you want to be.

Having a voice in your local NHS

Our members help us stay connected to the people and communities we serve.

You might have used our services yourself, cared for someone who has, worked with us through a local organisation, or simply want to know more about your local NHS. Whatever your connection, becoming a member gives you a way to stay informed and have your say.

Young members

If you are aged 14 or over, you can become a member.

Young members can receive updates, find out about careers and apprenticeships, attend events and share their views on local health and care services.

From the age of 16, members may also be eligible to stand as a governor.

Membership can also be a useful way to learn more about the NHS, local services and how large organisations work.

Staff members

Staff are automatically members unless they choose to opt out.

Staff members can vote in staff governor elections and, if eligible, stand to become a staff governor.

Staff governors play an important role in representing the views of colleagues and helping the Council of Governors understand staff perspectives.

How to join

You can join online by completing our membership form.

If you would prefer a paper form, or need this information in another format, please contact the Foundation Trust Office.

Phone: 01803 655406
Email: Foundation Trust Office

How we use your information

The information you provide as a member is held securely and used only for Foundation Trust membership purposes.

This may include contacting you about:

  • membership updates
  • governor elections
  • meetings and events
  • opportunities to share your views

We will handle your information in line with data protection law and our privacy policies.