OXFORDSHIRE’S hospitals bosses have officially launched consultation into changes that could give them greater independence.

The Government wants all NHS care providers to gain ‘foundation status’ which would give them greater control over their finances.

Last night the Oxford University Hospitals trust – which runs the county’s four main hospitals – launched its roadshow of public consultation events in Abingdon.

They will take the views of the public ahead of the planned move to foundation trust status in 2013.

Foundation trusts are part of the NHS but are independent bodies, run by a board of governors that includes patients, staff, and members of the public. Financial freedoms include the ability to retain financial surpluses to invest in new NHS services.

An OUH spokesman said: “The trust is starting a public consultation with people in Oxfordshire and beyond about its proposals.

“Members of the public, patients and staff are all invited to attend a consultation event near them in order to hear about the trust’s proposals for the future and to have a chance to put questions to members of the board.”

The next event will be held on Tuesday, July 3, at the Corn Exchange, Faringdon, between 6pm and 7.30pm.

Click on the link for a full list of consultation events with venues and times around the county.