The General Optical Council (GOC) is seeking to appoint new dispensing optician (DO) committee members across its education, registration and standards committees – as well as optometrist members.
There are three vacancies open on each committee:
• Education Committee: one DO and two optometrists
• Registration Committee: two DOs and one optometrist
• Standards Committee: one DO and two optometrists
The committees form part of the GOC Advisory Panel, which is responsible for giving advice and assistance to the council on:
• Matters relating to business registrants other than matters required by the Opticians Act to be referred to the Investigation Committee, the Registration Appeals Committee or the Fitness to Practise Committee
• Matters relating to optical training, education and assessment
• Matters relating to registration, other than matters required by the Opticians Act to be considered by the Registration Appeals Committee
• Matters relating to the standards of conduct and performance expected of registrants or those seeking admission to the register
The regulator is looking for candidates “who can bring a fresh perspective, will be able to demonstrate effective communication skills, and develop constructive and supportive working relationships”.
Committee members will have the opportunity to share their particular skills and experience while learning from others, the GOC stated – highlighting that it was also committed to supporting personal and professional development in the role.
Applications from individuals who are disabled, and from diverse ethnic backgrounds, are being particularly welcomed – as these are currently under-represented on the GOC’s committees.
The role is part-time with a commitment of approximately two to three days per year, including time spent preparing for meetings. A daily fee of £319 will be paid. Meetings will usually take place via Microsoft Teams but may be held at the GOC office at 10 Old Bailey, London EC4M 7NG or other suitable venues.
View the candidate pack for more information about the role and how to apply.
Any questions can be emailed to appointment@optical.org – quoting reference GOC04/24 – or call the GOC governance team on 0207 307 3934.
The deadline to apply is Sunday 8 September 2024.