The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) has confirmed John O’Byrne, Chief Executive Officer of Ability Matters Group, and Ben Taylor, Director of Taycare Medical, have been appointed as the new Chair and Vice Chair of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Sections.
With over 13 years of experience in the prosthetics and orthotics industry, Ability Matters Group CEO John O’Byrne joined his father’s business in 2008, having initially worked in project management in both the public and private sector.
Over the past two years, John has been an active member of the BHTA, and has been involved in the Wheelchair Services Working Group, helping coordinate the industry’s impressive response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Additionally, John has sat on the International Society for Prosthetics and Orthotics (ISPO)’s Executive Committee since 2019, supporting its mission to improve the quality of life for those who may benefit from prosthetic, orthotic, mobility and assistive devices.
Supporting John is sector veteran Ben Taylor, Director of Taycare Medical, as Vice Chair of the Orthotics and Prosthetic Sections. With more than two decades of orthotics experience, Ben’s time with Taycare Medical has seen him work across a range of different areas – from shaping strategic direction to developing the company’s business systems.
The family-driven company specialises in providing orthotic services and custom made products that make a difference to people’s daily lives. Taycare Medical is also one of the BHTA’s longest-standing members, supporting the Association for over 83 years.
John O’Byrne, Chief Executive Officer of Ability Matters Group, commented:
“I am very passionate about the prosthetics and orthotics sector, and have put myself forward for BHTA Chair to continue the good work that has been done regarding tackling national issues.
“I am delighted that I will be working with Ben, and hope that together we can work to act in the interests of the Sections. I very much believe that we have much more in common than that which divides us, and look forward to engaging more with everyone in the coming months.”
Ben Taylor, Director of Taycare Medical, commented:
“I believe the BHTA can help the industry to manage change for the better. I have played a largely supporting role with the BHTA over the years, and I try to attend most section meetings and input where necessary. However, I feel we are at a critical junction in our industry’s journey, and I would like to be part of shaping the future.
“The past 12 months have been turbulent for us all. I said to our business at some time during the first lockdown that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to reset, and I truly believe we can collectively make a difference that will benefit the industry and our service users.
“I look forward to working with John and the rest of the section to deliver the best value for our members.”
Dr Simon Festing, Chief Executive Officer of the British Healthcare Trades Association, commented:
“We are delighted that John and Ben have stepped up to support the Association and the members of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Sections during this important time.
“From the recently proposed changes to the NHS provider selection regime, to ongoing issues related to Covid-19, both Sections have important roles to play in ensuring the needs of members and service users are championed.
“With their experience and knowledge of the sector, along with their passion to bring about positive change in the industry, we are confident John and Ben will help ensure these Sections are active in the changes and challenges ahead.”
Published: 1st April 2021
Find out how apprenticeships will continue during the coronavirus (COVD-19) outbreak.
This document is for providers, employers, assessment organisations and apprentices.
It describes:
Source: Gov.UK – Part of Education, universities and childcare during coronavirus
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-apprenticeship-programme-response?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications&utm_source=08a9cc04-59c2-43c3-be48-c7e2840fe37d&utm_content=daily
The Consumer Codes Approval Scheme (CCAS) celebrates five years of Alternative Dispute Regulations (ADR) consumer regulations and its achievements during this period.
The ADR regulations were launched in 2015 to create better relations between consumer and traders, and encourage dispute resolution without going to court. Over the past five years, over 68,000 UK businesses joined the scheme and over £12.7M was recovered for consumers. In April, a report revealed that CCAS now protects almost £135bn of consumer transactions, a 62% year-on-year increase.
By assisting consumers and businesses, ADR within CCAS helps both avoid costly court proceedings and enables them to reach an agreement quicker. Consumers gain access to a clear complaint and ADR procedure. Businesses are regularly audited and monitored to ensure they comply with the high standards set by their approved code of practice. By using an approved trader, consumers have protection above and beyond regular consumer law rights.
CTSI Chief Executive and Interim Chair of the CCAS Board, Leon Livermore, said: “ADR has proved vital for strengthening the relationship between UK consumers and businesses. I am proud of CCAS’ achievements over the past five years, and I look forward to its continuing growth and development as we come out of the coronavirus lockdown, and over the next five years.”
Soure: Chartered Trading Standards Institute
Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI)
CTSI is a training and membership organisation that has represented the interests of the Trading Standards profession since 1881 nationally and internationally. We aim to raise the profile of the profession while working towards fairer, better informed and safer consumer and business communities.
CTSI’s members are engaged in delivering frontline trading standards services in local authorities and in businesses. www.tradingstandards.uk
Published: 17th June 2020
Theraposture, the leading specialist in Adjustable Beds, Chairs, and Care Cots, is experiencing growing demand for its latest OT-led, personalised video assessments and product demonstrations – following the introduction of a new web appointment calendar.
As the pandemic continues, the popularity of ‘Theraposture Covid safe services’ is on the rise. Offering an alternative to home visits, video appointments provide a face-to-face opportunity for the Theraposture Occupational Therapist (OT), Shaun Masters, to assess individual needs, answer questions and see a client’s environment. Home assessment visits are still available if requested and appropriate, however for clients who are shielding or who do not want visitors, the option to choose a video call provides peace of mind.
Shaun Masters, OT, can use a variety of video conferencing options including Zoom, Teams or WhatsApp. Once a booking has been made, he calls the client to discuss their product requirements and to ensure the technology is all set up before the appointment.
Bookings for Theraposture’s new service can be made by telephone or by Theraposture’s new online calendar booking app. Simple to use, visitors simply click on an available date, select preferences and the appointment is booked with the OT. Individual or multiple products can be seen in one appointment with several participants on the same call. This provides a highly efficient method of discussing suitable assistive equipment without travel or physical contact – hence Covid-19 risk free. In one video call, solutions can be discussed will several stakeholders responsible for care which saves times for all involved.
Shaun Masters, OT and Trusted Assessor, is leading the new Theraposture video services and believes working smart is the way forward to achieve faster positive outcomes. Shaun explains: “As an Occupational Therapist I embrace change. Its prescription often enables an individual to maintain or increase their level of independence. The world in which we find ourselves living in at the current time, requires each one of us to change our day-to-day lives. So, by embracing this change, coupled with technology, we can promote optimum health and wellbeing in new and innovative ways.”
Shaun adds: “Theraposture are using technology to complete video-based OT assessments via many different web platforms – this new way of working is quickly transforming our practice. We complete these in a timely manner as they can involve health professionals, carers, clients, and family members. The video assessment enables products to be viewed and demonstrated in a relaxed private environment, with full explanation given on specific features and functions prevalent to different pathologies. In my professional opinion, video assessments are very effective, and I strongly believe they will become normal practice within our continued new way of working.”
Theraposture video services are supported by its Covid-19 safe working practices which ensure product installations, service calls and home visits, of any kind, are safe for all involved. Technicians have a strict protocol and wear full PPE whilst ensuring clients are shielded during any customer facing interaction. This duty of care is backed-up by a 14-day Suitability Guarantee which allows clients ample time to use their new equipment and ensure they are 100% satisfied.
Published: 16th June 2020