27 January 2022

College of Optometrists invites nominations for College Council

The College of Optometrists is inviting nominations for new Council members across eight regions.

The College’s Council, which has a total of 13 vacancies, sets the strategic and professional direction of the College. The College is inviting engaged, committed and passionate members to put themselves forward for nomination for the volunteer roles by 25 February 2022. 

There are Council member vacancies in the following regions:

  • North East – one vacancy
  • Scotland – one vacancy
  • East Midlands – one vacancy
  • London – two vacancies
  • North West – two vacancies 
  • South East – two vacancies 
  • South West – two vacancies
  • Yorks and Humber – two vacancies

Catherine Bithell, Director of Member Services and Communications at the College explains: “We want optometrist representatives from every work setting and with different levels of experience, so please consider the role, no matter what your background. The key is that you are interested in the development of the profession, have an enquiring, critical and open mind, and are willing to express your views and represent those of your regional members.”

Anyone interested in becoming a College Council member can read more about the role  and complete their nomination form.  Nominations must be supported by two full members of the College who must either live or work in the region you wish to represent. 

Vacancies requiring ballots will open on Monday 7 March, ballots will close on Thursday 7 April and new Council members will begin their term on Monday 20 June at the College AGM during the College’s conference Optometry Tomorrow 2022.

College members can contact their regional Council member via the College website.