Reflecting on my time on Council as a registrant member

Ralph Pottie owns and runs a chiropractic clinic in Ayr, south-west Scotland, along with his wife, a fellow chiropractor. He is a member of the Royal College of Chiropractors, the British Medical Acupuncture Society and a Masters graduate of McTimoney College of Chiropractic. He has been a member of Council for nearly 8 years.

Before changing career to chiropractic in 2009, I had spent 16 years in Environmental Health and SEPA, the Scottish environmental regulator. In 2017, when I saw the advertisement for a registrant from Scotland to join the GCC as a Council Member, I thought I may have some appropriate experience in governance for the role. After some thought, I applied thinking the position would allow me to give something back to the profession I had embraced.

The job description detailed how I could contribute to building the profession by supporting the work of a strong and effective regulator. I was aware that the GCC isn’t always well received or understood by those it regulates and so I applied, with the intention that as registrant member on Council I would raise a chiropractor’s voice when needed. I firmly believe that an effective regulator, protecting patients, is one of the most important factors that, in turn, protects the profession.

I remember the recruitment process at the time was managed by an external recruitment firm. It was rigorous and stressful, but eventually my application was successful. Now, thankfully, the recruitment is more “in-house” and, while the GCC still demands the same high standards of prospective Council members, the process is less stressful.

It can be a daunting prospect joining an organisation such as the GCC, however the Council members have all been there too and are very welcoming - as are the executive staff. A full induction is arranged for all new members.

It takes a couple of meetings to settle in and I wasn’t to be disappointed, the work of the Council behind the scenes is fascinating. Being exposed to, and having a place in, the live discussions affecting the profession and its regulation is rarely dull. As a Council member you are involved in the strategic planning of the organisation, ensuring governance, questioning where appropriate and representing the profession when needed. You become acquainted with other stakeholders and get a unique view of the big picture that is our profession.

Working with the Lay members is a great experience. I have been impressed by their backgrounds and experience, their enthusiasm for the profession and public protection, and the grasp they have of the nuances of the profession. All Council members fulfil secondary roles on other committees, and it has been fascinating for me to sit on the Education Committee as the profession grows with new courses seeking approval and the revision to the education standards.

Regrettably, the time I am allowed to sit on Council is drawing to an end this summer, Legislation currently demands that 8 years (normally two 4-year terms) is the maximum anyone can sit on Council. However, there is no doubt in my mind - I have really enjoyed my time on Council, and the Education Committee. More importantly I know my contribution has, even if only in a small way, made a difference for the better for patients and for the profession.

If Ralph’s blog has whetted your appetite to become more involved in the General Chiropractic Council, please consider applying for one of the current vacancies.