Presidential hustings

The College is inviting members to attend next week’s Presidential election hustings on Thursday 20 October at 6pm – at which drinks and nibbles will be served to members attending in person.

The hustings at the College’s main office in central London will be addressed by all three candidates – Dr Kate Lovett, Professor Russell Razzaque and Dr Lade Smith CBE – who are vying to be the next President, when the current incumbent Dr Adrian James demits office in July.

The hustings, which will be chaired by Dr James, will also be streamed online.

What to expect on the evening

The approximate outline for the event is as follows.

  • 5.30-6 – Registration
  • 6-6.05pm – President’s welcome and drawing of lots for order of opening speeches
  • 6.05-6.10pm – Address by Candidate 1
  • 6.10-6.15pm – Address by Candidate 2
  • 6.15-6.20pm – Address by Candidate 3
  • 6.20-7.15pm – Q&A
  • 7.15 -7.18pm – Candidate 1 closing speech
  • 7.18-7.21pm – Candidate 2 closing speech
  • 7.21-7.24pm – Candidate 3 closing speech
  • 7.24-7.30pm – President’s closing words.

Asking the candidates a question

You can submit your questions to the candidates in advance, or – if you’re coming to the event in person – you can ask questions on the evening itself.

Submit a question for the candidates

Finding out more about the candidates

The three candidates have all issued election statements and recorded election videos, which can be viewed on our website.

The Autumn 2022 edition of RCPsych Insight carries a two-page special feature on the election.

Voting for the election opens on 14 December and closes at midday on 18 January, with the winner being announced on 19 January.

The winning candidate will take up office when Dr James demits office in the summer of 2023.

The election will decide the future direction of the College so if you want to take part in the debate, sign up to attend the event now.

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