RCVS Council 2027 candidate information
Nominations are now open for next year's RCVS Council election. Veterinary surgeons can put themselves forward to stand as one of our elected Council members, taking decisions on the education, training, registration and professional standards for the profession.
The deadline for nominations is Sunday 31 January 2027. This section contains the full details about how to stand for election and what it means to be a member of Council.
Introduction from the Registrar and Returning officer
Thank you for your interest in standing for Council and I am delighted to once again be serving as the returning officer for the 2027 election.
Being a member of Council is a fantastic opportunity for veterinary surgeons to both serve and lead their profession, allowing them to bring experience, knowledge and skillsets to bear in its discussions around a diverse range of issues including veterinary and practice standards, veterinary education and governance.
Elected RCVS Council members also have opportunities to serve on many of the other decision and policy-making bodies of the RCVS. This could be on one of our main standing committees such as Education or Standards Committees, as well as a number of subcommittees, boards and working groups that focus on particular issues such as mental health, practice regulation, sustainability and much more besides.
Please make sure to read and understand the information about the role and remit of the RCVS, RCVS Council and RCVS Council members on this page before you complete and sign the nomination form.
We are happy to answer any questions you may have, provide you with further information and put you in touch with RCVS Council members if you wish to find out more about the work they have been involved in. Please email Dawn Wiggins, RCVS Council Secretary, on [email protected] and we will be happy to help.
You might also like to attend a public RCVS Council meeting either online or in-person to get a better sense of the kinds of discussions taking place. Please contact Dawn to arrange this.
Best of luck with your candidacy.
Clare Paget
RCVS Returning Officer
Registrar/Director of Legal Services
Download the nomination form
Please ensure you have read all candidate guidance before completing the form.
Chapters
The role of the RCVS and VN Councils
Our mission, the members and functions of the Council and VN Council.
The role of Council members
How Council members work, confidentiality, committees, subcommittees and working parties.
What else do I need to know about being on Council?
Term lengths, meeting frequency and Financial Loss Allowance.
Guidance for prospective candidates
The election timetable, information about the candidate statement and biography.