Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I pay my Membership subscription by
Direct Debit?
A: Yes. In fact, the
College offers a financial incentive to members in the UK who
choose to pay by this method. Please click here for more information on paying by
Direct Debit.
Q: I think my circumstances may entitle
me to a reduction in my College subscription - how do I find out
more?
A: Reductions are available - for
example if working only a few sessions or taking a career break.
See "
How much subscription should I
paying?" for a summary or contact the
Membership Data Office.
Q: Why have I not received
information/journals to which I am entitled?
A: You must keep the Membership Data Office informed
of any changes of home or work address to ensure that your journals
or any communications from the College do not go astray. Journal
subscription is also one of the benefits of membership that is
suspended if you fail to pay your membership fee!
Q: Is it easy to get in touch with College
Officers?
A: They are all contactable via the College. Telephone messages
can be passed via their secretaries.
Q: How can I find out College policy on a
given issue?
A: College policy documents are called 'Council Reports'. A full list of these is
available freely from the College. They can be viewed on the
College website or obtained from the Book Sales office. The
Information Service can help obtain
further information on subjects where a policy document has not
been published, or to trace historical changes in policy through
the College Archives.
Q: I know I keep up-to-date - why should I
participate in the College's CPD
scheme?
A: While it is accepted that the majority of
psychiatrists keep abreast of modern practice it is increasingly
necessary for all medical practitioners to be able to show that
they are up-to-date. Participation in the College's scheme enables
a psychiatrist to demonstrate that certain standards have been
met.
Q: Can the College help me find the
information I need for my research project?
A: Yes. The Information
Service maintains many databases and on-line systems to offer
members help with enquiries, obtain copies of journal articles, and
perform literature searches. If you cannot get to the College's
London premises to use the Information Service yourself, telephone
020 7235 2351 ext. 152 or 138, or e-mail: infoservices@rcpsych.ac.uk
Q: How can I find out about and register
for conferences and academic
meetings?
A: Upon joining the College you will be placed on
the mailing lists that pertain to your speciality. Mailings about
each meeting include a registration form that should be returned to
College Conference Office with remittance by post or by fax.
Unfortunately, as yet we cannot take bookings over the phone.