Exploring life on RCVS Council

Thinking of standing for RCVS Council this year? Looking for an insight into what life on Council is actually like?

We spoke to current RCVS Council members Dr Tshidi Gardiner MRCVS and Dr Louise Allum MRCVS about their experiences and why they originally decided to stand.

Dr Tshidi Gardiner MRCVS - RCVS Treasurer, first elected to RCVS Council in 2021

Why did you decide to stand for Council?

I wanted to understand the conversations that were being had surrounding well-being, diversity, and inclusion within the RCVS Council. Acknowledging my limited understanding of its operations, my objective was to actively participate in decision-making, specifically addressing the impact of mental health challenges on the overall well-being of the veterinary profession. I aimed to position myself strategically to improve diversity and inclusion and contribute meaningfully to discussions that positively influence the profession as a whole.

What have you enjoyed most about being a Council member?

I've found immense joy in engaging with diverse perspectives from vets, nurses, lay members, and College staff across various backgrounds.

Delving into challenging discussions and hearing a range of opinions has been particularly rewarding. Additionally, the pleasure of travelling to different vet schools for meetings and experiencing warm welcomes has been a highlight, enhancing my overall enjoyment of the Council experience.

What advice would you give to someone looking to become a member of Council?

As a Council member, you operate akin to a board member, being representative of the wider veterinary profession. Your responsibilities include contributing to the regulation of the profession without advocating for any specific group whilst on the Council. The role in both challenging and fulfilling, requiring a commitment of time for effective execution.

Dr Louise Allum MRCVS - Chair of the Public Advisory Group, first elected to RCVS Council in 2021

Why did you decide to stand for Council?

It was something on my ‘to do’ list when I was retired and getting a bit bored at home. But a friend who was on Council at the time tapped me on the shoulder and said that I should consider it now. With a full time job, two other volunteer roles and three kids, I did wonder if this was the right time. However, I am glad I went for it and am super grateful that people made the time to vote for me. It has been something that is achievable with a full-time job with a little bit of planning.

What have you enjoyed most about being a Council member?

Meeting different vets, vet nurses and other professionals from varied backgrounds and finding out about aspects of the profession I would never have seen in my day job. Each member of Council serves on several different committees which are selected for you to start with. From my time spent on the Standards Committee I have been involved with topics such as exporting bees to the huge challenge of the ‘Under care’ guidance. I have been involved in further committees this year such as Mind Matters and have heard about the amazing work this group is doing to support the profession. I have also started chairing my first committee via the brand new Public Advisory Group.

What advice would you give to someone looking to become a member of Council?

Don’t wait until the perfect time. If you want to have a voice in this profession and want to get involved why not do it now? I would say don’t apply if you have an issue/soapbox that you want to promote. You need to have an enquiring mind and be able to deal with a whole range of issues and not be focussed on one area.

If you are interested in standing for RCVS Council in 2024, please visit our dedicated RCVS Council election page for more information and to download our 'information pack for prospective candidates'. Please note: candidate nomination forms must be received no later than 5pm on 31 January 2024.