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Falling membership numbers at the Royal Pharmaceutical Society has raised pressing questions as it transitions to Royal College (RC) status – and prompted a former RPS president to stand for its first English National Pharmacy Advisory Council (currently RPS English National Pharmacy Board).

Three-time RPS president Ash Soni said the “notable decline” in membership numbers warrants “careful consideration and action” from the new Royal College.

“It is imperative that the organisation investigates how it utilises media and other communication channels to maximise engagement with both members and non-members,” said Mr Soni. “Reflecting on how often it has sought input from the profession regarding [its] needs and wants is crucial.”

“The organisation must engage meaningfully by clarifying how certain topics relate to other bodies, but above all, it should demonstrate active involvement with issues from the profession’s perspective and support members in delivering the highest standard of care,” he added.

Mr Soni acknowledged that there is “strong confidence” in the staff of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society as it transitions into the Royal College. However, senior staff must remain vigilant to ensure that cost management does not compromise the organisation’s value.

“This will be a significant challenge for the incoming chief executive, and it is the responsibility of the Senate and trustees, acting on behalf of the profession, to hold senior staff accountable for achieving strategic objectives,” he said.

The inaugural elections for the Royal College national advisory councils will take place on February 23. The full candidate list for England, Scotland and Wales can be found here.