A project group was convened under the Chairmanship of the President, Professor John Cox to review the College's work in relation to ethnic issues in psychiatric training and practice.

The project group reviewed the Council Report on Psychiatric Practice and Training in a Multi-Ethnic Society (CR48), published in 1996, which followed an original report produced in 1987.

Several important recommendations to be taken on board by the College were put forward, including:

1. • undertaking a systematic review of its structures and introducing measures to eliminate any discriminatory practices

2. • appropriate training to ensure that all psychiatrists are culturally sensitive and culturally competent in their therapies

3. • ensuring that members of the College are aware of the possibility of discrimination or abuse when applying mental health legislation to people of Black and other ethnic minorities: discriminatory practices by members of the College will not be tolerated

4. • ensuring equal access to services for all Black and other ethnic minority communities

5. • continuing dialogue with all relevant user groups, including Black user groups

6. • the establishment of an Ethnic Issues Committee, as a Special Committee of Council.

The remit of the Ethnic Issues Committee, which will focus on carrying forward the report's recommendations, will also include the regular monitoring of examination results, election results and nominations for distinction awards. One of its first priorities will be to prepare a comprehensive equality strategy for the College.

The Ethnicity and Health Unit from the University of Central Lancashire has been appointed to undertake the external review of College structures, working closely with the College. This review has now been initiated and will be continuing over the next 3 years.

The full report is available from the College's Book Sales Office (tel: 020 7235 2351, ext. 146) and can be downloaded from the College's website at http://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/publications/CR/CR92.htm.