The Royal Pharmaceutical Society has rebranded as the Royal College of Pharmacy is it bids to become a charity.

The membership body has made the changes, which members voted for last year amid an overhaul of its governance and as it seeks Charity Commission approval for its charity status.

Its new structure includes the appointment of former ACEVO chair Joe Irvin as its first chair of trustees, recruitment of lay trustees, as well as elections for three National Pharmacy Advisory Councils, a Senate and President.

As a royal college it will “progress its credentialing programme, develop new learning resources and deliver enhanced support for members”, it said.

“I’m delighted to be chair of trustees as we take the next, significant step forward as a royal college and a charity,” said Irvin, who is also a former chief executive of National Association for Voluntary and Community Action (NAVCA).

“Together we are beginning a new chapter for pharmacy, rooted in collaboration, inclusivity and a shared commitment to improving care for patients and the public.

Irvin takes up his new role this month and will act as a lay member of the College’s Assembly until its board of trustees is formed.

He added: “Over the coming months the College will be delivering against a transition strategy, drawn from our five Commitments, while we develop our long-term strategy.

“We will continue to work with members and partners to ensure the College’s direction is shaped by member insight, evidence and the needs of patients, and reflects the skill, passion and potential of the pharmacy community.”

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