1. Introduction
The RCOG is occasionally asked by external organisations to endorse or support their documents or policies in which the RCOG has had no involvement. This document sets out the criteria that will be applied in processing requests for endorsement or support.
As a major part of RCOG's work is in collaboration with external bodies, such initiatives will not be included in this document. In cases of RCOG's collaboration with external bodies, an agreement needs to be reached on conditions and processes at the outset of each project. It is important to be aware that such collaborations cannot be assumed and must be negotiated with those responsible for the relevant area within the College.
2. Policy
2.1 Endorsement
In general the RCOG will not endorse documents or policies that have been developed without its participation. However, flexibility is important and rarely an exception may need to be made but this will be with the approval of the RCOG Council. An endorsement will give the document or policy the same status as an RCOG document or policy, so it will not be entered into lightly. The RCOG will permit use of its name and/or Coat of Arms in materials it endorses.
2.2 Support
Support will be given in instances where the document or policy has relevance to the mission and aims of the RCOG, the group or organisation leading the work is reputable and where the RCOG is willing publicly to express a positive view about a document or initiative. The RCOG will permit use of its name in materials it supports but not the Coat of Arms.
2.3 Silent support
On occasion the RCOG will encourage the development of an initiative but will not be involved in its development, nor will it lend its name to the initiative. The RCOG will not permit the use of its name or Coat of Arms in materials associated with silent support.