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The RCVS Council in session

RCVS Council

The RCVS Council is the College’s main governing body, responsible for setting its strategic direction and upholding professional standards across the veterinary profession. The Council currently comprises 24 members, with the Chief Veterinary Officer serving as an ex officio observer.

Current RCVS Council

13

Elected members (all veterinary surgeons)

3

Appointed members representing the nine UK universities with an RCVS-accredited degree

2

Appointed veterinary nurses

6

Appointed lay members

Two female council members at a meeting

Council meetings

Any member may view the minutes of the Council meetings. Copies dating back to December 1991 are held at the College and can be viewed by appointment. Earlier minutes are stored off-site, so advance notice is required to retrieve them.

Next Council meeting 

The next RCVS Council meeting is on Thursday 12 March 2026.

Find out more about RCVS Council

The RCVS shield on a blue background, with the phrase Inspiring confidence in veterinary care next to it

Council members

RCVS Council's elected members, Veterinary Schools Council-appointed members, appointed lay members and members appointe...
The RCVS shield on a blue background, with the phrase Inspiring confidence in veterinary care next to it

Role of Council Members

Council members undertake the governance of the College, in accordance with the powers and obligations set out in the Ch...
The RCVS shield on a blue background, with the phrase Inspiring confidence in veterinary care next to it

Council elections

Every year, three or four elected Members of Council complete their terms or begin new ones at the Annual General Meetin...