Draft Code of governance for NHS provider trusts (May 2022)

Summary

This code sets out a common overarching framework for the corporate governance of trusts, reflecting developments in UK corporate governance and the development of integrated care systems. 

Content

Key points

• Corporate governance is the means by which boards lead and direct their organisations so that decision-making is effective, risk is managed and the right outcomes are delivered.
• In the NHS this means delivering safe, effective services in a caring and compassionate environment while collaborating through system and place-based partnerships and provider collaboratives to integrate care.
• Best practice is detailed in the following sections: Board leadership and purpose, Division of responsibilities, Composition, succession and evaluation, Audit, risk, and internal control, and Remuneration.

Action required

• Trusts must comply with each of the provisions of the code or, where appropriate, explain in each case why the trust has departed from the code.