THE Dudley Group of Hospitals has become the first NHS Trust in the Black Country to become a Foundation Trust.

The accolade which has been awarded by Monitor - the independent regulator of Foundation Trusts, follows a rigorous and long application process which began over a year ago.

It will mean the Trust will now be known as The Dudley Group of Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

The coveted status will allow hospital bosses to have a greater financial freedom and flexibility than NHS Trusts in the way they manage their affairs, with accountability to the local community rather than central government control.

Strong emphasis is put on to local community connections which allows the NHS Foundation Trust to better shape their free healthcare services around local needs and priorities.

Foundation Trusts also allow residents to become members and governors which enables them to have their say on how healthcare is delivered.

Delighted chief executive, Paul Farenden, said: “We are committed to providing the best possible healthcare for the people of Dudley and surrounding areas and becoming a Foundation Trust will help us to continue to develop the best services for local people.

“Our vision is to be the ‘Hospital of Choice’ not only for patients but for staff too. Without a doubt it is the dedication and hard work of all our staff that has made us successful in our journey to becoming a Foundation Trust.”

The Trust currently has 12,000 members and is looking to reach more than 16,000 in the next three years.

If you would like to join contact 01384 456111 extension 1419 or visit www.dgoh.nhs.uk