Royal College of Physicians

Founded in 1518 by a Royal Charter from King Henry VIII, the Royal College of Physicians of London is the oldest medical college in England. It continues to play a pivotal role in raising standards and shaping public health today.

• We are committed to taking care, learning and being collaborative. These values drive the way we behave, how we interact with each other, and how we work together to achieve our vision and improve patient care. 

• We value learning : This means we continuously improve through active learning and honest reflection, so that we grow personally and as an organisation, while striving for excellence. We support learning and development opportunities.

Members have always given generously, not just of their time, but also their own collections and wealth. Over the centuries the RCP has accumulated a large number of trusts, given and bequeathed by past fellows, members and their families. Some to them founded research programmes or supported RCP activities and services. Many of these endowed lectures which are still active today.

We employ around 400 staff nationally across our directorates, encompassing academia, research, membership services, policy and campaigning. They directly support physicians in the work they do and their environment through quality improvement and influencing for better health and care. Our core services – such as Finance, HR and IT – provide essential support to all staff.