News / Community FTs authorised

Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Trust and Sussex Community NHS Trust gained foundation status from 1 April. Foundation trusts now account for more than 60% of all trusts in the English NHS.

Monitor – part of NHS Improvement since 1 April – said this week’s authorisations meant that a further 6 million people across England will be given a greater say over the way health care services are provided in their local communities.

Miranda Carter, executive director of provider appraisal at Monitor, said: ‘I’m delighted to announce the creation of these two new foundation trusts. It is a true testament to the hard work and dedication of every member of their staff.

‘As foundation trusts, these two organisations now have the freedom to develop services more tailored to the needs of the populations they serve.’

Paula Head, chief executive of Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust, said: ‘This is an exciting time in our development and we’re determined to provide excellent care in partnership with the community, in line with [NHS England chief executive] Simon Stevens’ five-year forward view.’

Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust chief executive Tracy Taylor added: ‘It is important to remember, alongside this achievement, that we continue to focus on our core purpose – the delivery of high quality, accessible and responsive community healthcare. This commitment has helped us gain the recognition of FT status – and it is that same commitment to patient care ​that remains what we are all about.’