NHS trusts considering an application for foundation trust status are required to meet strict eligibility and application criteria.
The application process is administered jointly by the Department of Health and the independent regulator of NHS foundation trusts, Monitor.
Currently acute, specialist, mental health and care trusts are eligible to apply for NHS foundation trust status. Local strategic health authorities would notify the Department of Health(DH) when the trust is ready to apply.
The application process is divided into a Department of Health development phase and Monitor's assessment phase. Applicant trusts are supported through the process by a Department of Health lead. To progress on to the Monitor assessment phase applicant trusts require approval from the Secretary of State for Health.
Currently, authorisations are expected on a monthly basis into 2008.
Details of the full application process can be found on the DH website.
