The role of the senior independent director
16 October 2026
9:30 - 13:00
Online via Zoom
8 spaces remaining
Leadership
Governance
Overview
Supporting accountability, stability and strong governance
The senior independent director (SID) plays a pivotal part in supporting effective unitary board governance, strengthening relationships, and providing an additional route for challenge and assurance.
This interactive half-day session is designed for current SIDs who want a refresher, and non-executive directors who are new to the role or considering stepping into it.
Through expert input, practical scenarios and peer discussion, you will explore what good looks like in an NHS context, including how to approach chair appraisal and how to navigate difficult dynamics when relationships are under strain.
Key takeaways
- Understand the SID role and where it adds value supporting board governance.
- Build confidence in supporting the chair and contributing to the chair's appraisal.
- Explore practical approaches to real-life scenarios, including relationship breakdowns and boundary issues.
- Learn with peers in a supportive space, leaving with actions that you can adapt and apply straight away.
Why this matters
The SID role is often most visible at times of challenge: when board relationships become strained, when confidence in leadership needs to be tested and restored, or when there are concerns about role boundaries and behaviours. In these circumstances, the SID can play a central role in stabilising governance, maintaining trust and ensuring issues are appropriately surfaced and addressed.
The role brings a distinct set of expectations, sensitivities and stakeholder relationships, including with governors. This session focuses specifically on the practical realities of the role in an NHS context, drawing on real scenarios and peer discussion.
It was informative, insightful and thought provoking. This workshop was well led by facilitators who both had good background knowledge and wealth of expertise.
NED & SID, Birmingham & Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust
What we'll cover
- The role and core responsibilities of the SID in the context of NHS unitary board governance.
- How to manage difficult dynamics with the chair, governors or non-executive directors.
- Approaches to real-life SID scenarios.
- Case-based discussion: ask questions, share challenges and gain advice from trainers and peers under Chatham House Rule.
This is a half-day course, with estimated timings of 9:30am to 1pm (subject to change). This training was developed in partnership with NHS England.
Trainers
Peter Howie
Associate - Board Development Programme
NHS Providers
Natalie McMillan
Associate - Board Development Programme
NHS Providers
Pricing
This training is open to Member and Non-Members of The NHS Alliance.
NHS Alliance Member: £210 (exc. VAT) | £252 (incl. VAT)
Non-Member: £315 (exc. VAT) | £378 (incl. VAT)
You will need to provide a purchase order number at booking to confirm your place on this course. Card payments are also accepted.
Follow the 'Book now' link at the top of this page to book your place. You will need to create an account if you have not already done so.
Excellent session learnt a lot - great to have a network of SID colleagues.
Who should attend
- Senior independent directors
- Non-executive directors who are new to the SID role or considering stepping into it.
