As we are adjusting to the “new normal” and the dust is settling a bit, we maybe have a little time to remember that the HCPC requirements to engage in CPD, research and audit haven’t gone away, still need to be done. And although there are a lot of challenges, this is also a time of opportunity and learning.
We are really missing conferences or getting together for CPD and networking, especially the postponed Liverpool Congress, but most organisations have moved online, and there is a lot of training out there. WSPOS, ESA/ISA, BIPOSA and many national groups are all organising virtual CPD events, that are free or very low cost, and allow you to “go to an international meeting” from home. You can hear leading experts when you would never have had the opportunity to go to the face to face meeting on the other side of the world. Often the content is available to view on YouTube later. In the last month I have spoken to meetings run from India, Australia, America and Europe, but with worldwide audiences. It’s not nearly so much fun as getting on the plane, and has involved some early starts, but it’s a lot easier and cheaper!
This has been a time of massive change and creative problem-solving, so if you have a few moments, remember to record and write up the effects of what you have all done and share it with everybody. The ESA/ISA session on October 18th was really informative about the different ways people are coping around the world. Please continue to take part in any COVID related surveys into changes of practice or service delivery, but also remember to audit and compare your own local pre-and post COVID outcomes from now on.
For early career researchers, don’t miss the December 10th closing date for applications for the £15,000 Joint BIOS / Fight for Sight Small Grant https://www.fightforsight.org.uk/apply-for-funding/researcher-information/small-grant-awards-schemes/
Finally, I have been BIOS Research and Innovation Director for six years now, and will be handing over to someone new over the next few months, with a short shadowing period planned for the incoming person. It has been a really interesting and enjoyable few years, and I wish I had done it earlier in my research career because it has really broadened my horizons and research network. If you think you might be interested in the role, please email me for an informal chat. BIOS will be advertising for expressions of interest soon.
Happy November!
Anna Horwood
