GOC recruits Hearings Panel chairs

We are seeking to appoint 11 lay chair members to our Hearings Panel.  

The Hearings Panel’s work relates to our Fitness to Practise functions. The Panel consists of around 70 members, lay (non-registrant) and registrant, from whom members of our Fitness to Practise Committees (FtPCs) and Registration Appeals Committees (RACs) are drawn. As a lay chair member of our Hearings Panel, you will chair either FtPCs or RACs.  

You do not have to be a legally qualified individual or have specialist medical knowledge for this role. We are looking for individuals who can chair meetings effectively and impartially, ensure that allegations are considered fairly and independently, and that standards are maintained for registrants and the protection of the public. 

A FtPC considers whether a registrant’s fitness to practise is impaired and imposes sanctions if appropriate to do so. This includes considering allegations, hearing evidence, and determining the fitness to practise, train or carry on business of our registrants.  

A FtPC also determines whether it is necessary for interim measures (suspension or conditions) to be put in place whilst an investigation is in progress for the protection of members of the public or in the interests of a registrant. 

A RAC considers an appeal against a decision by our Registrar to refuse to enter or restore an individual or business to the appropriate register; and applications for restoration by former registrants who have been erased by the FtPC. 

We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds with a passion for public protection; and the ability to think critically, listen effectively, consider evidence and to build a consensus. 

This role requires a commitment of approximately 16-20 days per year, including time spent preparing for meetings. Meetings will usually take place via MS teams, but on occasion may be held at our offices in Central London.  

A daily fee of £372 is paid in line with our member fees policy and member fee schedule, and expenses can also be claimed.  

For more detailed information about the role, please visit Hearings Panel Chairs (Lay): Campaign Pack and read the Candidate Information Pack. To apply, please complete the Application Form (available via the previous link) and send it, along with your CV, to appointment@optical.org. You will also need to complete an equality, diversity and inclusion monitoring form.  

The deadline for applications is Sunday 28 July.  

If you have any questions about the role that are not answered in the Candidate information pack, please email them to appointment@optical.org.