RPS publishes roadshow report, membership vote on Royal College status set for Q1 2025

Pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists provide feedback on proposed changes to the RPS constitution and governance (C&G)  

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has released a comprehensive report summarizing the discussions and feedback gathered during a series of engagement events held across Great Britain in October and November, focused on its proposals for change and its ambition to transition into the Royal College of Pharmacy.

The engagement initiative included 15 roadshow events in various cities across England, Wales, and Scotland, as well as online events and meeting presentations.

According to the report, the roadshows attracted over 1,000 registrations, with more than 540 attendees.

Hosted by the RPS leadership team and elected officials, these events brought together a diverse group of pharmacists, foundation trainees, pharmaceutical scientists, and other stakeholders from different settings and sectors.

Participants shared their thoughts on the RPS’s proposals to reform its constitution and governance, raised critical questions, and explored the implications of the proposed changes.

RPS president Professor Claire Anderson highlighted the significance of these roadshows, stating that they have provided “an invaluable opportunity to connect with members and non-members and hear their thoughts about the proposed changes, and what becoming a Royal College would mean to them and for pharmacy.”

“We are grateful for the enthusiasm, insights, and constructive feedback shared by everyone who came to one of the events. This dialogue is vital as we move forward with our proposals for change and seek to elevate pharmacy and champion our collective impact on patient care.”

The RPS said that it has taken into account the questions and feedback from members and stakeholders in the final drafting of their proposals for change, which will be published this month.

As part of the next steps in the constitution and governance (C&G) process, RPS plans to launch a campaign to inform and engage its members, leading up to a membership vote on the Royal College status in Q1 2025.

• The current proposals include making these key changes:
• Transforming RPS into a registered charity, overseen by a Board of Trustees.
• Seeking to become the Royal College of Pharmacy.
• Retaining an elected body for professional leadership, transitioning from the current Assembly to a Senate with clearly defined roles.
• Maintaining National Boards, to be renamed National Councils, focusing on devolved national health policy.
• Establishing Pharmaceutical Press as a wholly owned subsidiary.

For the changes to be enacted, a two-thirds majority of members’ votes in favour is required, along with approval from the Privy Council.

Additionally, obtaining charitable status necessitates agreement from charity regulators in England, Wales, and Scotland.