Spring is upon us and 2020 is picking up speed. It feels like only weeks ago I was saying hello to you all as part of my new role as Northern Ireland Trustee, that was 8 months ago! I am thoroughly enjoying the role, especially representing Orthoptists of Northern Ireland at Council and Trustee meetings to ensure we are getting the best service for our membership.
A lot has happened in those 8 months, especially in Northern Ireland. One of the most major issues has been the struggle for pay parity for NHS staff in comparison to other regions of the UK. The Northern Ireland Assembly reconvened on Monday 13 January 2020 and amongst a host of promises pay parity was agreed with the aim to be implemented rolling forward from 01 April 2020. Thank you to members who supported discussions and took part in the processes required during this difficult period. I wish to take this opportunity to express my thanks and appreciation to the Chair and wider Board of BIOS, with special thanks to BOSTU rep Sam Aitkenhead for the unending support and advice I received at all hours of the day and night.
In August 2019 I was invited to sit on the Allied Health Professionals for Northern Ireland Board (AHPfNI), a group dedicated to highlighting the importance of AHPs within the healthcare system in Northern Ireland. We continue to meet every two months and in coming months we aim to discuss workforce planning, especially future proofing funding for our professions, with the Northern Ireland Assembly and Health Board. I want to ensure Orthoptic services across NI will be sustainable to meet future demands, meet the needs of the population at an appropriate standard in line with strategic directions and provide commissioned support for clients at both population and specialist levels.
I wish to say Good luck to the three Orthoptists in Northern Ireland commencing their independent medical exemptions course this coming year. An excellent progression in the Orthoptic role and I look forward to hearing how this develops their role in Ophthalmology. I was pleased to learn at the Heads meeting on 20 January 2020 that there is now an Orthoptist in each of the five task & finish Frailty network expert panel groups within the five Trusts in Northern Ireland. This is a great achievement and hopefully the individuals will link with the Falls CAG for advice/support when needed.
I am excited for the upcoming CAG study days. I encourage all Orthoptists to explore the CAG study day adverts and book on to at least one this year. They are informative, structured and very well run, so be sure to not miss out.
As always I want to hear from Orthoptists in Northern Ireland and indeed further afield as part of my role as Retinal Disease CAG Co-Chair. I am keen to hear of any ideas anyone may have, issues that may be arising and comments you may wish for me to bring to Board meetings on your behalf. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with me at any time.
Declan McClements
BIOS Trustee for Northern Ireland
