People are being encouraged to submit questions to directors of their local hospital trust at new-style board meetings.

Board members of Southport and Ormskirk Hospital NHS Trust have been meeting virtually since the spring because of Covid-19 restrictions. Since October they have been able to reopen meetings to the public thanks to online broadcast technology.

Trust chair Neil Masom said: “The needs of patients and our local community are at the heart of our board discussions. So, it’s good to hear from members of the public and respond to their views and concerns.”

Questions should be submitted in advance and be received no later than 48 hours in advance of the meeting. Send them to Sharon Katema, the Trust company secretary, at Southport hospital or email her at soh-tr.corporategovernance@nhs.net.

The Board’s next meeting is on Wednesday 2 December at 9am. This link will give access to the meeting, which is expected to last until midday and observers can join at any time.