Election to RCoA Devolved Nations Boards: results announced
The College is pleased to confirm that the following candidates have been elected unopposed, with terms of office commencing in February/March 2026.
RCoA Scottish Board
Consultant vacancy (one to elect):
- Dr Anne DEVINE
SAS vacancy (one to elect):
- Dr Nafees JAFRY
Dr Daphne Varveris, Chair of the Scottish Board said:
“Congratulations and welcome Anne and Nafees. At a time when daily pressures across the NHS make it challenging simply to maintain the status quo, and when the anaesthetic workforce continues to face significant demand, rota gaps, increasing complexity of care, and ongoing recovery from the pandemic, we are especially grateful to colleagues who are willing to step forward to contribute to the Colleges broader national initiatives.
“Their commitment to advancing the work of the College, while ensuring that the voices of Scottish members are clearly heard, is both valued and appreciated. “
RCoA Northern Irish Board
Consultant vacancy (one to elect):
- Dr Helen McGOURTY
SAS vacancy (one to elect):
- Dr Gayle WALLACE
Dr Sinead McGuirk, Chair of the Northern Irish Board said:
“I am delighted to welcome Helen and Gayle and look forward to working with them alongside our other boards members.”
RCoA Welsh Board
Six Health Board vacancies to include all Consultant, Specialist Grade, Staff Grade and Associate Specialist members (in alphabetical order, nine to elect):
- Dr Richard JONES
- Dr Daniel HELME
In addition, Gareth James was appointed following the close of the election process. Gareth will represent Hywel Dda University Health Board, which continues to have some outstanding vacancies.
Dr Simon Ford, Chair of the Welsh Board said: “I would like to thank all the candidates that have put their names forward and congratulate them on their election. I’d also like to thank the outgoing representatives who have played a vital role in the work of the Board.
“The strength of the Board is understanding the local challenges and being able to support departments, while supporting the broader work of the College to ensure a close connection. As the demand increases on anaesthetic services, it is important the College has a well-represented voice in Wales to support development.
“It is very encouraging to see the enthusiasm and commitment Gareth, Dan and Richard will bring to the board and the departmental support behind them. I look forward to working with all of you to make a difference for anaesthesia in Wales.”
Outstanding vacancies
There remain three vacancies on the Welsh Board- two representatives from the Hywel Dda Health Board and one from Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board.
We are keen for Consultants, Staff Grade and Associate Specialist members interested in joining the Board to get in touch, so that we can discuss the importance of the role and the impact you can have on representing your nation and specialty.
Please email governance@rcoa.ac.uk for more information. Alternatively, keep an eye out on our devolved nation board pages for future vacancies and notices.
Dr Claire Shannon, President of the Royal College of Anaesthetists said:
“I would like to thank everyone who stood for election to our Devolved Nations Boards.
“It is incredibly encouraging that, even with the continuing pressures across our health services, so many talented candidates are prepared to volunteer their time and expertise to support the College and the patients our members look after.
“Congratulations to Anne, Nafees, Helen, Gayle, Richard, Daniel and Gareth. I am also grateful to every member who participated in the vote. Council and its elections play a vital role in the College’s work, and it is heartening to see such strong engagement in this process.”