How the College works

The Honorary Officers of the College are elected by our members. They act in a leadership capacity as the most senior members of the College, and are members of the Trustee Board and Council.

The Board of Trustees, which is chaired by the President, acts as governing body of the College, with its status as a registered charity. It has full legal responsibility for the effective management of the College, ensuring it delivers on its purpose and complies with all applicable laws and good practice.

Council is chaired by the President. It leads on matters relating to education, policy, professional practice, professional standards, public engagement, quality, research, and training in psychiatry. Council is made up of the Honorary Officers, Vice Presidents, Chairs, Strategic Directors and elected members. 

Find out more about our Council

Devolved Councils

Healthcare is devolved, meaning distinct policies, legislative frameworks, NHS structures and services operate independently within each nation of the United Kingdom. Devolved Councils (DCs) in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland take forward the aims and objectives of the College in their respective countries.  They reflect and address the differences and opportunities in devolved law, services, and membership needs.  Each DC has a Chair who is also a Vice President of the College.

Find out more about our Devolved Nations

International and English Divisions

Find out more about our Divisions and International Divisions – African, European, Middle Eastern, Pan-American, South Asian and Western Pacific.

There are 13 Faculties within the College that represent the major specialties and sub-specialties of psychiatry. Faculties represent the expertise, experience and body of knowledge in each particular specialty. Each has a Chair and an Executive Committee.

Our 15 Special Interest Groups (SIGs) lead on key issues within psychiatry and mental health, such as diversity, marginalised groups, culture, and other cross-cutting issues in psychiatry. Each Special Interest Group has an elected Chair and Finance Officer and an informal Executive Committee.

The College is supported by over 230 employees and over 150 patient and carer workers. Employees are grouped into eight departments with offices across the UK – each of those departments is headed up by a Director. The Senior Management Team meets weekly to discuss strategic and operational issues, then meets with the Honorary Officers to support their leadership roles. Members of SMT, including the CEO, attend Council and Board to present and answer any questions about the day to day running of the College.