Lay members on the RCOG Women's Network (WN) bring perspectives from their experiences as patients and members of the public.
The Women's Network is a strategic College Committee with three Network members sitting on RCOG Council. The Network helps ensure that the needs, experiences and views of people who use obstetric and gynaecological (O&G) services are at the heart of the College’s work. Its members contribute insights into issues spanning fertility, pregnancy, labour and birth, gynaecological conditions, menopause and beyond.
How to apply
To apply, please complete the form via the button below.
If you have any questions about this role, need any support in completing this application, or need to access the form in a different format (for example, completing the form as a voice or video recording), please email womensvoices@rcog.org.uk or call 020 7772 6441.
If you do not feel that you have all of the specific experience and skills outlined below, but you have a passion for, and dedication to, improve the health of those using O&G services; a balanced and open minded approach; and willingness to learn and develop your skills further, your application is very much welcomed.
Should you have any additional enquiries please email womensvoices@rcog.org.uk.
Application deadline: Monday 9 November 2026
Interview date: TBC, mid-November
What our volunteers say
"Networking with colleagues, feeling part of the important work being done by the College and being recognised for your contribution. It makes me feel so honoured and valued"
"Volunteering gives you the opportunity to develop personally through sharing your experiences and supports you to maintain your wellbeing by having time to relax among friends who understand the work you do"
"These relationships have been some of the most rewarding in my career. I would thoroughly recommend these roles to any aspiring colleagues with an interest in education and training"
"In my personal experience, committee roles and experiences gave me more motivation and passion to remain involved as an effective mentor, educator and trainer for my trainees"
Role description
Member of the Women's Network
Three years, starting in December 2026
- The Women’s Network leadership team
- RCOG patient and public involvement team
- Women’s Network members
- Chair, committee members and staff supporting relevant committees on which you represent the Network
- RCOG staff including Policy and Public Affairs and Communications teams
Women's Network Committee meetings are held quarterly via Teams with one meeting a year being in person at the College.
We would ask you to:
- Read agenda papers in advance of meetings
- Attend all meetings via Teams
- Actively participate in discussions during the meeting
- Bring wider insight from any groups you are involved with
Members are offered an honorarium payment of £1000 per year. Out of pocket expenses will be paid to members in accordance with the RCOG expenses policy, which includes travel expenses and accommodation when necessary.
Depending on other RCOG committees on which the member represents the WN, there are likely to be at least four more quarterly meetings per year to attend as well as ad hoc events.
Therefore, it is estimated that a commitment of the equivalent of approximately one day per month is required.
Person specification
- Personal experience as a user and/or carer of women and people that use obstetrics and/or gynaecological services
- Experience of project planning or topic based working
- Understanding of current NHS and health care issues
- Understanding of, and commitment to, principles of equality, diversity and inclusion
- Advocating on behalf of the public in a health or social context
- Knowledge of guidance and information development and consultation processes
- Knowledge of current O&G related initiatives and organisations championing health and service improvement
- Ability to take a balanced and objective approach to a broad range of O&G topics
- Ability to investigate topics and make recommendations
- IT literacy; competent in Microsoft Word and in communicating using email) (with training and support))
- Oral and written communication skills
- Ability to critically review complex written or spoken information
- Commitment to dedicate the necessary time for advisory group meetings
- Ability to interpret sometimes complex information
- Ability to listen to a wide range of views and contribute in a balanced and considered manner
- Regular availability for attending meetings and contributing to work of the Women’s Network
- Willingness to travel to London and elsewhere and, occasionally, be away from home overnight
Volunteering with the RCOG is a rich and rewarding experience which offers a range of professional and personal benefits:
- Professional recognition
- Build networks and friendships
- Career development
- Make meaningful change
- Wellbeing