What it means to be a Council Member

It’s that time of year again, when the College invites members and fellows to run for Council and, in turn, to vote. Will you overlook the invitation? Will you vote? Turnout is steadily improving but still College elections are often lost, rather than won, through low levels of engagement. Why not consider standing to be a Council member? It could be you.

Council has 24 elected members, all clinically active, with ten females, only six professors, two trainees, two SAS grades, representing all parts of the UK. Faculties, devolved nations, lay members and other interested areas have co-opted seats.

Fellows have their own idea of what the College does, and usually education, training and exams (ETE) is first to spring to mind. But there is so much more in the work of a 21st century College. Only half of Council have served as examiners or Regional Advisers in Anaesthesia, and ETE is only one of four busy College Directorates.

Clinical Quality & Research, sets standards through GPAS, which shapes the anaesthetic service and patient care you provide. Can you use your specialty expertise to write standards, or work with ACSA to accredit anaesthetic departments? The College responds to many, varied consultations, needing knowledge from all specialties – and medicolegal experience, is greatly valued.

Representation of anaesthetists’ interests to government and employers, and keeping Fellows informed relies on excellent communications and external affairs. Do you enjoy connecting with audiences and presenting? Do you have a social media presence which can help get the College’s message across?

All current Council members are Trustees, responsible for running a medium-sized business to Charity Commission rules, so experience in finance, investment or as a Trustee is always welcome.

How much time does a Council member spend on College work? Board and committee meetings require at least a couple of days in London, each month. You will need support of leaders in your hospital and understanding colleagues. An annualised contract helps. Skype and conference calls minimise travel but having good transport links to London is an advantage. Reading, writing, emails and preparation can be done anywhere, anytime, but will probably be in your own time. While workload may increase with extra responsibilities over time, the College has over 100 members of staff who are all experts in their specialist areas to help you make a success of your time on Council.

The College looks for diversity amongst its Council members, and skills acquired from outside medicine are often the most valuable. Anaesthetists provide great service to patients, and they deserve an active, caring and responsive College. Nominations close on 28 September 2018, and voting starts in mid-October. Please consider playing your part.