Chair's Update March 2021

Dear members,

I hope this update finds you well. I am sure there are mixed feeling of hesitation and hope as the country starts to unlock, with schools now back and other sectors gearing up to reopen. On the surface, it has been a relatively quiet month for BSA, but underneath, our leads and groups are feverishly active, updating the BSA website and online learning, updating policies and procedures, working on grant applications with other audiology organisations, finalising new guidance documents, and much more. Later this month we have our Trustees meeting and annual stocktake, following which there will be some firm updates for you, including plans for conference and our AGM, and I will recap those in my April message.

Two weeks ago, I met with members from AIHHP, BAA, BSHAA, and NCHA to restart discussions about a future College of Audiology. This work has been on hold since the start of the pandemic, so I am delighted we are now able to take it forward. The last year has been an ultimate demonstration of the importance of working together as a sector with a unified voice, and the potential value a College of Audiology for all. Picking up where we left off, we will work up an independent steering group to lead the next steps, and I will be calling on you at various points of consultation.

As always, stay safe and well.