The BHTA is delighted to be working in partnership with TACT (Trusted Assessing and Care Training) to launch a brand-new course designed for retailers of independent living equipment.
The Trusted Assessors: Assessing in the Retail Environment course is designed to accredit retailer members as Trusted Assessors.
This new training-based programme announced on February 6th at the Retailer Day enables customer-facing staff to learn the skills involved in assessing for suitable home adaptations equipment. The course was developed by TACT in consultation with the BHTA and its members and it is accredited by OCN London.
Retailers of equipment for independent living are experts in the product solutions they range, and this enables them to check suitability and tailor products to individual people’s needs. Many retailers are relied on in their local areas to visit people at home and demonstrate equipment to help people live independently. The Trusted Assessor model is based on occupational therapy models of practice and learning this approach enables an Assessor to evaluate the person and their environment in a systematic way to identify the best solution. Assessors are taught when to refer a case to an OT (Occupational Therapist) and this ensures best use of staff and resources whilst speeding up access to much-needed equipment.
‘We’re delighted to be working with the BHTA to provide this Trusted Assessor course to their members. It’s a splendid example of how staff already visiting older and disabled people at home can be taught to carry out simple assessments for home adaptations with a best practice approach based on the Competency Framework. Expanding the range of Assessors working in the UK by harnessing the skills of this specialist retail sector is an innovative way of speeding up access to much-needed equipment,’ says Clare Barber, Director of TACT and an OT specialising in this field.
‘This programme underlines the BHTA’s commitment to quality and raising standards in the sector,’ says David Stockdale, Chief Executive at BHTA ‘The Trusted Assessor model is known and in widespread practice in health, social care, and housing services across the UK. This initiative enables our retail members to be aligned with a best practice approach in assessing for equipment that in turn means they can be integrated into local pathways. Older and disabled people can expect to gain faster access to important solutions for their independence and be confident in the impartial advice provided.’
Courses can be commissioned directly from TACT or learners can book onto an open course – the first open course will run on June 4th in Warwick at Wenman Healthcare. To book onto the course or find out more please email TACT on info@trustedassessing.com or visit their website and complete a web enquiry https://trustedassessing.com/
[London, 20 December 2023] A coalition of leading first aid and cardiovascular charities, including the British Heart Foundation, St John Ambulance and the British Red Cross, have pledged support for the British Healthcare Trades Association campaign to scrap the VAT on Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), a move which would increase affordability and save lives.
This comes as over 100 MPs and Peers wrote to the Prime Minister and Chancellor last month urging the Government to consider scrapping the defibrillator tax ahead of the Autumn Statement.
The Heart Restart Tax initiative is led by the BHTA and brings together community groups, charities, businesses and MPs to campaign for change.
Defibrillators are used to restart a person’s heart in the event of sudden cardiac arrest and early treatment can increase survival rates to as high as 70% if defibrillation is given within three to five minutes of collapse. However, the median distance to an AED from the centre of any given UK postcode is over 700m – an average 19-minute walking distance there and back.
Small businesses, community groups, charities and private users must pay added tax on top of all defibrillator purchases – bringing costs up by £200-500 per defibrillator. The campaign is urging the Government to reconsider the tax to ensure that more defibrillators can be installed across the country.
Currently, local authorities, the NHS, and specific first aid charities are exempt from VAT on defibrillators, meaning that the tax only hits small businesses and charities, community groups, grassroots sports clubs and private owners.
In January, the Irish Government removed the VAT on defibrillators in Ireland in a bid to save lives and reduce pressure on healthcare services.
David Stockdale, Chief Executive of the British Healthcare Trades Association, said:
“We know that defibrillators save lives, but they are far too few and far between on our streets. This counterintuitive Heart Restart Tax is a tax on saving lives and we’re really pleased to have the support of leading first aid and cardiovascular charities to reinforce that scrapping the VAT on defibrillators is a common-sense solution to a real problem for private users, community groups and grassroots sports clubs.”
Lynn Thomas, Medical Director at St John Ambulance, said:
“In a cardiac arrest, every second counts. Using a defibrillator is crucial in those first moments and when used quickly can more the double the chances of survival.
At St John Ambulance, we know Community First Aid Saves Lives, that’s why we welcome this campaign to empower our communities by strengthening public access to first aid training and equipment that will improve health outcomes and help save lives.”
Susannah Kerr, Head of Public Affairs at the British Heart Foundation said:
“The UK still has very poor survival rates for out of hospital cardiac arrests, and that is why it is vital that lifesaving defibs are as available and affordable as possible for communities across the country.
We’re proud to support this campaign so that community groups, businesses and charities across the UK can ensure more defibs are where they need to be in the ultimate medical emergency.”
Patrick Gollop, Director of Red Cross Training, said:
“A sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, at any time, and survival rates are significantly greater by using chest compressions and a defibrillator quickly. This means much more should be done to increase the numbers of defibrillators across the country and particularly in community spaces; removing VAT on all defibrillator purchases would help to increase affordability and access and save lives in turn.”
ENDS.
Notes to editors:
[London, 25 October 2023] – The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) Independent Living Section is pleased to announce a collaboration with the NHS Supply Chain to establish a standardised system for describing the height and width of products, sizing terms, and patient measurement procedures for walking aids. This initiative aims to streamline the process of selecting the right walking aid products for both patients and healthcare professionals.
The BHTA Independent Living Section, in a project led by NHS Supply Chain, has developed a set of terms to describe the height and width of walking aid products. This standardisation will eliminate confusion and ambiguity in product descriptions, ensuring clarity for both suppliers and healthcare providers.
The collaboration has defined the sizing measurements associated with each term. Terms such as narrow or standard width, as well as small, medium, large, and extra-large heights, are now uniformly defined, making it easier for healthcare professionals to accurately assess patient needs and recommend the most suitable walking aids.
These developments have been integrated into the NHS Supply Chain catalogue. As a result, all walking aid products within the catalogue now utilise the new standard description terms and sizing guides. This significant improvement simplifies the process of ordering the correct products, reducing the risk of errors and improving patient care.
Furthermore, the BHTA Independent Living Section and the NHS Supply Chain are extending an invitation to all suppliers and distributors to join this important initiative. By implementing the agreed-upon approach, suppliers and distributors can contribute to a more efficient and standardised process across the industry.
David Stockdale, CEO of BHTA, said “BHTA and our Independent Living Section are proud to have worked on this project with NHS Supply Chain.
We are excited about the positive impact that this collaboration will have on the healthcare industry. Standardising the terminology and sizing measurements for walking aids will greatly improve the ordering process, enhance patient care, and streamline operations for healthcare professionals and suppliers alike. Every patient should receive the right walking aid that is tailored to their specific needs. This new approach should simplify that process.”
Simon Ball, Clinical Engagement and Implementation Manager and Advanced Practice Physiotherapist, said: “It’s been fantastic working with members of the BHTA, suppliers and key stakeholders from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy to agree on a standard way to measure patients for their walking aids, as well as agreeing on common terminology to be used across the walking aid product ranges when describing heights and widths of products.
“It will benefit patient safety, with healthcare professionals being advised to measure walking aids in the same way. It also simplifies the decisions on product selection, ensuring patients receive the right aid first time therefore reducing waste and improving patient experience.”
The new, standardised terms and measurements can be viewed on the BHTA website, here: https://www.bhta.com/get-wise-to-measuring-a-walking-aid/
ENDS***
Notes for editors
About the BHTA: Representing over 400 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) supports its members to help ensure people have access to the right product and service, at the right time, at the right value. All BHTA members are committed to the association’s Code of Practice, requiring companies to offer a level of service above and beyond the legal requirements. The BHTA collaborates with members, policymakers, and stakeholders to shape a healthier future for all.
About NHS Supply Chain: NHS Supply Chain is part of the NHS family and manages the sourcing, delivery and supply of healthcare products, services and food for NHS trusts and healthcare organisations across England and Wales.
We manage more than 8 million orders per year across more than 129,000 order points and over 16,000 locations. We deliver over 35 million lines of picked goods to the NHS annually and our systems consolidate orders from over 1100 suppliers. This enables us to bring value to our NHS partners, helping them save time and money in removing duplication of overlapping contracts.
NHS Supply Chain aims to leverage the collective buying power of the NHS to drive savings and provide a standardised range of clinically assured, quality products at the best value.
NHS Supply Chain is committed to enabling the NHS to deliver safe and excellent patient care.
[London, 6 Sept 2023] – Make UK, the UK’s leading organisation for the manufacturing and engineering sector, and the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA), the leading trade association for the healthcare and assistive technology sector, are delighted to announce their new partnership, aimed at fostering collaboration and growth for UK healthcare manufacturing companies.
This partnership brings together two influential organisations, each with a strong commitment to advancing their sectors and driving innovation, quality, and excellence in manufacturing and healthcare in the United Kingdom.
Through this collaboration, Make UK and the BHTA aim to enable manufacturers of healthcare products to connect, create new opportunities and innovate together.
Both organisations recognise the importance of sustainability in their respective sectors. By utilising resources and expertise, they will explore ways to promote environmentally-friendly practices and products throughout the manufacturing and healthcare supply chains.
By sharing expertise and insights, they will work together to support training and development in the industry, helping to shape a workforce that can meet the evolving demands of modern manufacturing and healthcare.
David Stockdale, CEO of BHTA, said “This partnership represents a significant step forward for the healthcare and assistive technology sector. By working alongside Make UK, we will gain access to invaluable knowledge and resources that will help our industry thrive. Together, we can improve healthcare outcomes and contribute to the growth of the UK economy.”
Chris Corkan, Interim Region Director, Make UK added “Make UK is delighted to be joining forces with the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) to ensure that UK manufacturing continues to thrive. The healthcare and assistive technologies sector employs thousands of people to make and supply essential equipment at high standards. By working with BHTA we can together strengthen the sector’s voice with national government.
“We are excited to begin collaborating with BHTA across our collective areas that are vital to the success of healthcare manufacturing. From providing a strong supply chain for our health and social care system, developing the workforce of the future and to create a strong industrial vision for the country.”
The BHTA and Make UK are excited to start collaborating and further strengthen the manufacturing and healthcare sectors in the United Kingdom.
About the BHTA: Representing over 400 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) supports its members to help ensure people have access to the right product and service, at the right time, at the right value. All BHTA members are committed to the association’s Code of Practice, requiring companies to offer a level of service above and beyond the legal requirements. The BHTA collaborates with members, policymakers, and stakeholders to shape a healthier future for all.
Website: www.bhta.com
About Make UK: Make UK, The Manufacturers’ Organisation, is the representative voice of UK manufacturing, with offices in London, Brussels, every English region and Wales.
Collectively we represent 20,000 companies of all sizes, from start-ups to multinationals, across engineering, manufacturing, technology and the wider industrial sector. Everything we do – from providing essential business support and training to championing manufacturing industry in the UK and the EU – is designed to help British manufacturers compete, innovate and grow.
From HR and employment law, health and safety to environmental and productivity improvement, our advice, expertise and influence enables businesses to remain safe, compliant and future-focused.
Website: www.makeuk.org
[London, 28 June 2023] Yesterday, the Department for Transport launched new training aimed at airport ground handlers to ensure mobility equipment is being handled correctly and minimising damage to vital mobility aids.
BHTA members, OttoBock and eFoldi, took part in creating the training video, supplying the equipment that was used in the guidance demonstration.
The training video, titled “It’s my legs – Why handling wheelchairs with care matters”, emphasises why it is crucial to handle wheelchairs, powerchairs and other mobility equipment with care, using impactful personal experiences.
David Stockdale, CEO at BHTA, said:
“At BHTA, we have heard some really concerning examples of mobility equipment being damaged during air travel, which then negatively impacts a person’s holiday or business trip. We believe that it is essential that everyone can travel with confidence.
BHTA is proud to have supported this new government training initiative and would like to thank our members OttoBock and eFoldi for providing the equipment used. This training will go a long way towards enhancing the experience of mobility aid users during air travel.”
The training video has been published as part of the Department for Transport’s “REAL person, REAL passenger” disability awareness training package, along with guidance featuring top tips from the video. The training can be accessed for free here: https://bit.ly/3NmAEKs
Tanvi Vyas, Aviation group lead at the Disabled People’s Transport Advisory Committee (DPTAC), said:
“When equipment is damaged, this doesn’t just scupper the short-term plans of the trip itself. An understanding of the longer-term impact physically, emotionally and financially is really important. This is why I hope offering free REAL training and the creation of a ground handlers training video raises the bar, enhances existing knowledge and sharpens minds to understand the gravity of the situation when damage occurs.
The training aims to reinforce the importance of diligence and care by sharing the real-life impact of damage.”
*** For immediate release***
[September 2022. London, UK] Ahead of the Chancellor’s announcement on Friday of the government’s ‘Growth Plan’ in Parliament, this morning the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy has announced its Business Support Scheme. So, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) has taken an early look at what the scheme actually means for businesses in the UK.
The Prime Minister, Liz Truss said:
“The package of support to protect firms would apply from 1 October and would make sure businesses are able to get through the winter”.
As is often the case, the devil is in the detail, as the Political Editor of The Mirror has noted that although the support scheme will be backdated to October 1, it won’t be introduced until mid-October at the very earliest.
This is primarily because the Business Support Scheme will need emergency legislation, and Parliament will be in recess due to the Conservative Party Conference.
The main headline on the initial reading of the support package is that the government plan to pay the costs of more than £1 in every £3 of gas consumed by businesses and households over the next six months.
On the surface, they plan to impose a cap of approximately 50% on the winter cost of electricity and 25% on gas, and for this to be reviewed after three months.
This plan will also apply to non-domestic energy users: businesses, charities, and public sector organisations.
The plan is that the government will fix the ‘Supported Wholesale Price’ to £211 per MWh for electricity and £75 per MWh for gas, “less than half the wholesale prices anticipated this winter”, lasting six months.
The government has provided a couple of examples in the press release, one of which we have included below:
“A school uses 10 MWh of electricity and 22 MWh of gas a month. They signed a fixed contract in July 2022, giving them a current monthly energy bill of about £10,000. At the time they signed their contact, wholesale prices for the next 6 months were expected to be higher than the Government Supported Price of £211/MWh for electricity, and £75/MWh for gas, meaning they can receive support under this scheme.”
And:
“The difference between expected wholesale prices when they signed their contract and the Government Supported Price is worth £240/MWh for electricity and £70/MWh for gas, meaning they receive a discount of £4,000 per month, reducing their original bill by 40%.”
Commenting on this morning’s announcement, David Stockdale, BHTA Chief Executive Officer said:
“Whilst The BHTA welcomes this announcement of a Business Support Package from the government, we hope that there will be further support measures introduced by The Chancellor on Friday, to help our members navigate their way through a challenging winter for us all.”
As the support package has only just been announced, Economic reporters and our own Policy Team are carefully looking through the details for more information and as soon as we have further news for our members, we will let you know.
***Ends***
About the BHTA: Representing over 400 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) supports its members to help ensure the best outcomes for the most vulnerable in society.
All BHTA members are committed to adhering to the Association’s Code of Practice – the only code in the industry approved by The Chartered Trading Standards Institute.
Media contact: Jamie McKay, Content Marketing Manager
Contact email: jamie.mckay@bhta.com
*** For immediate release***
Pictured above from left to right: David Ellison, Member Engagement Manager at BHTA, David Stockdale, Chief Executive Officer at BHTA, Kevin Dare, Managing Director UK&I at Arjo and Karen Kennedy, UK Sales Director MBTS & VTE at Arjo.
[August 2022. London, UK] Global giant, Arjo, market-leading supplier of medical devices and solutions, has become the latest company to join the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA).
Founded in 1957, Arjo is at the forefront of medical innovation, employing over 6,500 people across 100 countries.
With over 60 years’ experience in caring for patients and supporting healthcare professionals, Arjo is a major supplier of devices and solutions that improve the quality of life for people with reduced mobility and health challenges.
In August this year, the company became the newest member of the BHTA.
Kevin Dare, Managing Director at Arjo, said:
“Becoming a member of the BHTA will provide Arjo with a platform to work with other like-minded organisations to collaboratively improve industry standards and therefore provide our customers and their patients with ever improving products and services, which are aligned to the financial and clinical challenges they face.”
The BHTA represents over 400 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry.
Working on behalf of their members, the BHTA aims to improve industry standards and champion consumer protection, leading to better quality health and care for all.
All BHTA members are committed to the BHTA Code of Practice, the first and only in the healthcare industry to have been approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) Consumer Codes Approval Scheme (CCAS).
David Stockdale, CEO at BHTA, said:
“I’m really excited to have such a major player in the healthcare industry join us here as a member of the BHTA.
“This is a transformative time for everyone involved in health and social care, and the more we can bring the industry together, the better we can develop and respond to the challenges that our sector faces.
“BHTA is looking forward to representing Arjo and supporting them during this critical time.”
***Ends***
About the BHTA: Representing over 400 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) supports its members to help ensure the best outcomes for the most vulnerable in society.
All BHTA members are committed to adhering to the Association’s Code of Practice – the only code in the industry approved by The Chartered Trading Standards Institute.
Media contact: Jamie McKay, Content Marketing Manager
Contact email: marketing@bhta.com
*** For immediate release***
[August 2022. London, UK] At the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, healthcare industry professionals had to rapidly realign the way their services were provided, implementing virtual assessments to ensure that those in need of assistive technologies would continue to receive essential products and services during this turbulent period.
Recently, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) brought together a panel of industry experts to discuss the move to virtual assessments; the challenges they overcame, the lessons learned and what the future could look like.
BHTA Chief Executive Officer, David Stockdale, said:
“During the pandemic, the healthcare industry had to make unprecedented decisions, and make them quickly, about how they could continue to provide essential products and services.
Now that we have had some time to assess the last couple of years, we thought it would be valuable for our members, and other healthcare professionals, to evaluate the changes that were made and examine what the future may hold for virtual assessments.
With the world returning to normal, it’s essential we find the balance between virtual assessments and face-to-face consultations to provide the best possible experience and outcome for the end user.”
Produced in association with AT Today, DLF & Foundations UK, and with the sponsorship of Care & Independence, you can view the roundtable discussion online now.
The panel of six experts came together from different areas of the healthcare industry at the Tower Hotel, London, to share their experiences of virtual assessments, consider the evidence and examine what the future holds.
The BHTA Roundtable Series has been split into five episodes, each one dealing with a different aspect of the virtual assessment discussion, covering subjects such as “The benefits of virtual assessments”, “The desire to move back to face-to-face assessments”, and ‘Virtual assessments during the pandemic – what could have been done differently?”.
“During the pandemic, the healthcare industry had to make unprecedented decisions, and make them quickly, about how they could continue to provide essential products and services.“
David Stockdale, Chief Executive Officer of the British Healthcare Trades Association
The episodes and full-length roundtable can be viewed on the BHTA website here.
***Ends***
About the BHTA: Representing over 400 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) supports its members to help ensure the best outcomes for the most vulnerable in society.
All BHTA members are committed to adhering to the Association’s Code of Practice – the only code in the industry approved by The Chartered Trading Standards Institute.
Media contact: Jamie McKay, Content Marketing Manager
Contact email: marketing@bhta.com
*** For immediate release***
[July, 2022. London, UK] The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) and its First Aid Medical Equipment (FAME) members are supporting The Circuit initiative – a campaign to connect defibrillators to emergency services across the UK.
Spearheaded by the British Heart Foundation, in partnership with St John Ambulance, Resuscitation Council UK, and Association of Ambulance Chief Execs, the project aims to create a centralised and accessible national database of registered of defibrillators.
According to St John Ambulance, there are an estimated 100,000 defibrillators across the UK, however, tens of thousands of these are unknown to ambulance and emergency services. This can result in emergency services not having access, or directing bystanders, to the life-saving device when needed.
With the recent announcement from the Department of Health, that state-funded schools across England will receive defibrillators, there is even more need for their location to be easily accessible by the emergency services.
“The Circuit is working very hard to ensure that all Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are known to 999 services in the community.”
Rob Higgie, First Aid Medical Equipment Section Lead of the British Healthcare Trades Association
Research from the National Institute for Care and Research shows when a defibrillator is utilised (in addition to CPR), a person’s survival odds can increase from approximately 6% to 74%.
To help ensure emergency services can get hold of these vital devices, the BHTA and its FAME members are urging all organisations to register their defibrillators on ‘The Circuit’.
Rob Higgie, First Aid Medical Equipment Section Lead of the British Healthcare Trades Association, commented:
“The Circuit is working very hard to ensure that all Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are known to 999 services in the community, so that they can be deployed in a cardiac arrest to save lives. In my opinion, it’s a very noble cause.”
The BHTA represents ethical and trusted suppliers of first aid medical equipment, including suppliers of AEDs, as well as a wide range of other sectors in the healthcare and assistive technology industry. A list of BHTA-approved companies can be found in the online BHTA member directory.
Organisations can register their defibrillators at https://www.thecircuit.uk/
*** ENDS ***
About the BHTA: Representing over 400 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) supports its members to help ensure the best outcomes for the most vulnerable in society. All BHTA members are committed to adhering to the Association’s Code of Practice – the only code in the industry approved by The Chartered Trading Standards Institute.
About the BHTA First Aid Medical Equipment Section:
Comprised of the UK’s leading manufacturers and distributors of first aid and medical products, the First Aid Medical Equipment Section works to promote best practices in the industry, for example, in the recently published new guidance on how to effectively apply a tourniquet in an emergency situation.
About ‘The Circuit’:
The Circuit is the national defibrillator network which maps defibrillators across the UK, connecting them directly and automatically to each ambulance service.
Media contact: Calvin Barnett, Head of Marketing and Communications
Contact email: marketing@bhta.com
*** For immediate release***
[May, 2022. London, UK] The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) has released new free guidance on controlling a bleed in an emergency situation, including how and when to apply a tourniquet.
The “Get Wise to using a tourniquet: A guide to Haemorrhage Control Pathway” document provides first aiders with simple step-by-step instructions to enable them to quickly administer the right treatment in the event of a catastrophic haemorrhage.
In particular, the leaflet provides a quick and easy overview of which technique and dressing can be used on which body part, including where it is appropriate to use a tourniquet.
Catastrophic haemorrhage is the term used to describe a severe bleeding injury, which can result in a fatal loss of blood in just a few minutes. In these cases, survival is often reliant on the ability to provide fast and effective treatment before emergency services.
“This is an important guidance document that gives people a clear and succinct pathway to help inform their decision-making and actions.”
Tom Pear, Chair of the British Healthcare Trades Association’s First Aid Medical Equipment Section
Written by industry experts from the BHTA’s First Aid Medical Equipment (FAME) Section, the guidance was created following concerns regarding a lack of understanding among first aiders regarding the appropriate action to take in such situations.
Tom Pear, First Aid Medical Equipment Section Chair of the British Healthcare Trades Association, commented: “In emergency situations where every second counts, it is essential that first aiders are able to confidently and correctly use first aid equipment. This is an important guidance document that gives people a clear and succinct pathway to help inform their decision-making and actions.
“Despite the unlikely event of catastrophic haemorrhaging occurring in day-to-day life, tourniquets and haemostatic dressings should be an integral part of every first aid kit. All first aiders should be trained in their use.”
The document is aimed at those working in high-risk environments, including industrial and construction sectors, and those working in large venues, such as stadiums, airports and even large office buildings, where there is a possibility of catastrophic haemorrhages occurring.
The “Get Wise to using a tourniquet” leaflet is available to download for free.
The BHTA represents trusted and ethical suppliers of first aid and medical equipment, as well as other companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry. A list of BHTA-approved companies providing first aid kits containing tourniquets can be found in the online BHTA member directory.
*** ENDS ***
About the BHTA: The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) brings healthcare and assistive technologies companies together to help shape and improve the health and care of the nation. Working on behalf of its members, the association aims to ensure the highest industry and consumer standards to support healthcare systems and protect consumers’ interests.
About the First Aid Medical Equipment Section: Comprised of the UK’s leading manufacturers and distributors of first aid and medical products, the First Aid Medical Equipment Section works to promote best practices in the industry, ensuring the vital products and services supplied by its members meet regulatory and quality standards.
www.bhta.com
For hi-res imagery, comments or to arrange an interview with a BHTA representative, contact:
Media contact: Samantha Lewis, Marketing Campaign Manager
Contact email: marketing@bhta.com
*** For immediate release***
David Stockdale, newly-appointed Chief Executive Officer of the British Healthcare Trades Association
[May, 2022. London, UK] The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) has confirmed that David Stockdale has been appointed as its new Chief Executive Officer and will join the association on 13 June 2022.
Mr Stockdale will bring more than two decades of senior management and leadership experience to the role. Most recently, he led the transformation of the British Tinnitus Association, spearheading a 575 per cent growth in revenue over his 12 years as CEO.
Andrew Stevenson, Chairman of the British Healthcare Trades Association, commented: “The Board is delighted to have David join the association.
“This is a critical time for all involved in health and social care, with new reforms, agendas and priorities shaping the future of the system. Sustainability, innovation, integration, consumer protection and more are all areas undergoing change that will have a significant impact on our members. The BHTA has an important role to play in ensuring our member companies’ needs are seen and heard.
“David will bring a wealth of experience, energy and enthusiasm to the association. We are confident he will amplify the voice of association, continuing to ensure the interests of our members are represented.”
Before his time as Chief Executive of the British Tinnitus Association, Mr Stockdale held senior roles at People United Against Crime as Head of Business Crime Reduction Centre and Young Voice as Director of Finance, Projects and Marketing.
“I am proud to be joining the BHTA and working on the opportunities and challenges that lay ahead for the sector and the role the BHTA can play in supporting the members to flourish.”
David Stockdale, CEO of the British Healthcare Trades Association
In addition, Mr Stockdale is a Trustee and Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Sheffield Young Carers Project, as well as a Founding Member of the Tinnitus and Hyperacusis Special Interest Group.
David Stockdale commented: “I am proud to be joining the BHTA and working on the opportunities and challenges that lay ahead for the sector and the role the BHTA can play in supporting the members to flourish. I am most excited about engaging with members, really getting to the heart of the key issues, and identifying how the BHTA can help. I am looking forward to getting started!”
Mr Stockdale lives and works in Sheffield, has two teenage children and has a love of ice hockey, literature, hiking and swimming. He is also a mentor for the Sheffield City Region Launchpad initiative, a fully funded business support programme delivered across the Sheffield City Region.
*** ENDS ***
About the BHTA: The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) brings healthcare and assistive technologies companies together to help shape and improve the health and care of the nation. Working on behalf of its members, the association aims to ensure the highest industry and consumer standards to support healthcare systems and protect consumers’ interests.
www.bhta.com
For hi-res imagery, comments or to arrange an interview with a BHTA representative, contact:
Media contact: Calvin Barnett, Head of Marketing and Communications
Contact email: marketing@bhta.com
Published: 16th May 2022
*** For immediate release ***
[Sept, 2021. London, UK] Dr Simon Festing, Chief Executive Officer of the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA), has taken the decision to resign with immediate effect.
Having joined the association in March 2020, Dr Festing helped steer the BHTA through the ensuing COVID-19 pandemic, alongside implementing a range of operational and strategic changes.
Andrew Stevenson, Chairman of the British Healthcare Trades Association, commented:
“The board of directors thank Simon for his efforts and wish him well for the future.”
Members of the Board and Senior Management Team will assume responsibilities for the management of the association, until such time as a new CEO is appointed.
*** ENDS ***
About the BHTA: Representing over 400 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) brings the industry together to help shape and improve the health and care of the nation. All BHTA members are committed to adhering to the association’s Code of Practice – the only code in the industry approved by The Chartered Trading Standards Institute. https://www.bhta.com/what-we-do/
About the CTSI: The BHTA Code of Practice – the first for consumers in the healthcare industry – is approved under the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI)’s Consumer Codes Approval Scheme, ensuring all BHTA member companies trade ethically and professionally.
Contact email: marketing@bhta.com
*** For immediate release***
[July, 2021. London, UK] The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) has called on the government to extend the NHS self-isolation exemption in England to eligible workers in the health and care industry amid concerns over staff shortages.
It follows a week that saw over 500,000 individuals being told to self-isolate after being pinged by the COVID-19 app or contacted by NHS Test and Trace.
Dubbed the ‘pingdemic’, the significant rise in numbers of employees self-isolating has resulted in staff shortages, impacting a wide array of sectors, including health and social care.
In response, the government announced that from the 19th of July, double vaccinated frontline NHS and social care staff in England who have been told to self-isolate will be permitted to attend work if they are able to meet a number of conditions.
These conditions include having a negative PCR test, taking daily negative lateral flow tests for a minimum of seven days, and up to 10 days or completion of the identified self-isolation period.
According to the government, the measure has been introduced to “alleviate pressure on NHS and social care services” and is being considered on a “case-by-case basis, and only after a risk assessment by the organisation’s management.”
In particular, the government has stated it “is clear the change applies only to frontline NHS and social care staff where their absence may lead to a significant risk of harm.”
Despite not being classed as “frontline NHS staff”, BHTA member companies play a central role in the health and social care sector, providing safe access to vital equipment and services. Often, these services and equipment are provided on behalf of the NHS and local authorities, or help to significantly reduce the burden on these organisations by providing an alternative route to those in need.
The BHTA is now calling for these measures to be extended to include all eligible staff from its member companies.
Dr Simon Festing, Chief Executive Officer of the British Healthcare Trades Association, commented:
“Our members play an integral role in the provision of vital health and care services across the country; however, many are impacted by the ongoing ‘pingdemic’ crisis.
“Staff shortages may adversely affect important equipment services, from the provision of wheelchairs necessary for users’ mobility, to the delivery of essential independent living aids required for patient discharge from hospitals.
“Following the government’s announcement that frontline NHS staff are not required to self-isolate if they are double jabbed and take the correct precautions, we would urge the government to extend this exemption to companies providing services on behalf of the NHS.
“Throughout the pandemic, our members have proven they are quick to adapt to fast-evolving challenges, keeping their employees and service users safe, while also continuing to provide their essential services.
“As England now reopens and all restrictions are lifted, our members should be given the opportunity to manage this latest challenge to ensure the ongoing provision of health and care for all.”
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About the BHTA: Representing over 400 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) brings the industry together to help shape and improve the health and care of the nation. All BHTA members are committed to adhering to the Association’s Code of Practice – the only code in the industry approved by The Chartered Trading Standards Institute. https://www.bhta.com/what-we-do/
About the CTSI: The BHTA Code of Practice – the first for consumers in the healthcare industry – is approved under the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI)’s Consumer Codes Approval Scheme, ensuring all BHTA member companies trade ethically and professionally.
Media contact: Calvin Barnett, Head of Marketing and Communications
Contact email: marketing@bhta.com
Published: 19th July 2021
*** For immediate release ***
[June, 2021. London, UK] On 15 June 2021, the British Healthcare Trade Show (BHTS) will take place, reconnecting trade professionals in the mobility, access, and independent living sectors to discover new products, trade partners and opportunities.
The event, hosted in association with the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA), THIIS Magazine and Promoting Independence, will be held at the Weetwood Hall Estate and Conference Centre in Leeds and will be the industry’s only dedicated B2B trade show.
22 leading mobility, access and independent living suppliers will welcome hundreds of retailers and installers as the industry comes back together after a prolonged period of COVID-19 disruption.
Sponsored by Motion Healthcare, the one-day show will provide a relaxed, COVID-secure space where industry retailers, installers and distributors can meet to network and talk business after 15 months of disruption.
It comes as the nation prepares for the continued lifting of lockdown restrictions, fuelled by the successful vaccine rollout. As part of the government’s roadmap, conference centres and exhibition halls, including for business events, have been able to resume since May 2021.
The free-to-attend event will also include seminars from leading experts in social media, pay-per-click advertising, public relations and more, providing tailored advice to help business leaders grow their businesses.
Calvin Barnett, Head of Marketing and Communications for the British Healthcare Trades Association, commented:
“After what has been a difficult 15 months for many businesses in the industry, we are delighted to have the opportunity to bring people back together to look ahead to the future.
“Feedback we have received from exhibitors and those who have registered already has been fantastic; professionals in the industry are keen to come back together and talk business.
“The British Healthcare Trade Show will provide the perfect platform for buyers to find new products and new opportunities, helping ensure they can make the most of the summer recovery. We have also introduced a comprehensive range of COVID-19 measures to ensure all visitors can interact comfortably and safely.
“Due to capacity restrictions, we would recommend that all trade professionals interested in meeting a range of leading suppliers and seeing several new products should book their tickets as soon as possible, to avoid disappointment.”
To book a free ticket to attend on 15 June, visit www.britishhealthcaretradeshow.co.uk
To find out more about booking a stand to exhibit, contact BHTA Engage Sales Manager Joe Fahy on 07384 258 372 or bhts@thiis.co.uk
Location and date:
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About the BHTA: Representing over 400 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) supports its members to help ensure the best outcomes for the most vulnerable in society. All BHTA members are committed to adhering to the Association’s Code of Practice – the only code in the industry approved by The Chartered Trading Standards Institute.
www.bhta.com
About the CTSI: The BHTA Code of Practice – the first for consumers in the healthcare industry – is approved under the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI)’s Consumer Codes Approval Scheme, ensuring all BHTA member companies trade ethically and professionally.
About the British Healthcare Trade Show: Made exclusively for the trade, the free-to-attend event provides mobility, access and independent living professionals the chance to see new products and make new contacts in a relaxed, COVID-19 secure setting.
Media contact: Calvin Barnett, Head of Marketing and Communications for BHTA
Contact email: marketing@bhta.com
*** For immediate release***
[May, 2021. London, UK] The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) is encouraging older people to go ahead with making vital home adaptations by seeking out its certified members.
It comes following the publication of new research, suggesting almost a third (32 per cent) of English adults in their 50s and 60s could be put off from making vital home repairs and improvements because of a lack of trust in tradespeople.
The research examines the barriers facing older people when attempting to make essential improvements to their homes that are necessary to ensure their ongoing independence.
Carried out by Ipsos MORI for the Good Home Inquiry, an independent review of England’s poor-quality housing stock commissioned by the Centre for Ageing Better, the survey was conducted online with adults in England aged 18-75 to understand people’s attitudes around home improvements.
In particular, the survey examined what factors caused distrust and instilled confidence in tradespeople among those aged 50 to 70, with a significant percentage (32%) stating that they did not trust tradespeople.
Examining the top three causes of mistrust among this demographic, the research highlighted that concerns over tradespeople not doing a good job was the biggest factor (59%), closely followed by worries that tradespeople won’t give a fair cost for the job (56%), as well as wariness having experienced problems with tradespeople in the past (44%).
Additionally, fears over the price of work increasing (42%) and people being encouraged to pay for unnecessary work (39%) also ranked highly among those aged 50 to 70.
The results emphasise the need for older people to be able to trust tradespeople to carry out home repairs in their homes, to ensure they can remain healthier and independent for longer and reduce pressure on NHS and social care services.
Along with uncovering the causes of mistrust, the research also surveyed which factors instil more confidence in people aged 50 to 70 when hiring a tradesperson. Notably, a significant one in three (34%) people confirmed that the tradesperson being a member of an accredited trade association, such as the BHTA, increased their level of trust.
Representing over 400 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry, the BHTA and its members work to create an ethical trading environment that gives consumers confidence.
All BHTA members commit to adhering to the association’s Code of Practice – the only code in the industry approved under the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI)’s Consumer Codes Approval Scheme, ensuring its members trade ethically and professionally.
Dr Simon Festing, Chief Executive Officer of the British Healthcare Trades Association, commented:
“The results of this research reveal all our fears of dodgy tradespeople. But we believe that with the right approach, older people can still go ahead and get essential adaptations and improvements to their homes, which they need to live healthier and independent lives.
“As one of the longest-established trade associations in the healthcare sector, the BHTA understands just how important trust is when it comes to having work carried out for vital installations, such as handrails, stairlifts, ramps and level access bathrooms.
“We would encourage all consumers to go ahead and make the necessary changes to their homes to keep themselves safe, mobile and independent, by seeking out a BHTA member. Our members commit to our Code of Practice, ensuring they uphold standards over and above the law, to give consumers confidence that they are professional and ethical.
“Also, consumers have the added peace of mind of knowing that in the rare event that a dispute does occur between themselves and a member, the BHTA is on hand to provide a fair and transparent mediation service.
“We recommend consumers look for the BHTA’s logo on companies’ websites and literature when searching for companies that provide and install home adaptations. The logo acts as a badge of trust and can be found proudly displayed by all BHTA members. Consumers can also find, and verify, our members of the BHTA by visiting our website.”
To find or verify a BHTA member, visit www.bhta.com/bhta_members
To enquire about becoming a member of the BHTA, contact membership@bhta.com
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About the BHTA: Representing over 400 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) supports its members to help ensure the best outcomes for the most vulnerable in society. All BHTA members are committed to adhering to the Association’s Code of Practice – the only code in the industry approved by The Chartered Trading Standards Institute.
About the CTSI: The BHTA Code of Practice – the first for consumers in the healthcare industry – is approved under the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI)’s Consumer Codes Approval Scheme, ensuring all BHTA member companies trade ethically and professionally.
Good Home Inquiry Survey: The survey by Ipsos MORI was conducted online between 19th February – 22nd February 2021 within 1,020 adults in England aged 18-75. Data are weighted to the profile of the population
The Good Home Inquiry: Commissioned by the Centre for Ageing Better, is an Inquiry into England’s housing policies to determine causes of, and solutions to, the country’s current housing crisis. Although commissioned by Ageing Better, the Inquiry will be led by an independent panel and chaired by David Orr. The Inquiry supports Ageing Better’s goal of reducing the number of homes classed as ‘non-decent’ by at least one million by 2030.
To find out more about the Centre for Ageing Better, visit www.ageing-better.org.uk
To find out more about The Good Home Inquiry, visit www.ageing-better.org.uk/good-home-inquiry
Media contact: Calvin Barnett, Head of Marketing and Communications
Contact phone no: 07741 641702
Contact email: marketing@bhta.com
**** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ****
[January, 2021] – [London, UK] – After news that the British Healthcare Trade Show (BHTS) has had to be postponed due to the third COVID-19 lockdown, the organisers have announced that the event has been rescheduled to take place on the 15th June 2021.
Delivered in partnership with the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA), THIIS Magazine and Promoting Independence, BHTS aims to bring the mobility, access and assistive technology sector together after 12 months of business disruption.
BHTS will provide a trade-exclusive space where industry retailers, installers and distributors can freely meet to network and talk business with suppliers and manufacturers in a safe, relaxed and secure environment.
Originally set to take place over one day in early February, the show was required to reschedule following the government’s announcement of a third national lockdown on 4 January 2021.
Determined to ensure the show takes place in the spring ahead of the busier summer trading months, BHTS will now be held on 22 April 2021 at the same venue as before: Weetwood Hall Estate, Leeds
The event will act as the ideal launchpad for suppliers to showcase products to trade buyers just ahead of the warmer months.
With the government committing to vaccinate the top four priority groups by 15 February 2021, it is hoped the industry will see a significant number of its key consumer demographics vaccinated ahead of the summer, helping to fuel a strong marketing recovery.
To attend the show for free in April, visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/british-healthcare-trade-show-tickets-118463959893.
www.britishhealthcaretradeshow.co.uk
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Notes for editors
Dates and venue:
About the BHTA: Representing over 430 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) supports its members to help ensure the best outcomes for the most vulnerable in society. All BHTA members commit to the BHTA Code of Practice – the only code in the industry approved by The Chartered Trading Standards Institute.
Media contact information
Media contact: Calvin Barnett, Head of Marketing and Communications for BHTA
Contact phone number: 07741 641702
Contact email number: calvin.barnett@bhta.com
*** For immediate release***
[Jan, 2021. London, UK] The British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) has welcomed official guidance from NHS England and NHS Improvement (NHSEI) prioritising frontline health and social care workers in the vaccine rollout programme. The association has now stressed the need to ensure no eligible workers in the healthcare industry are overlooked.
It comes at the start of the Pfizer/BioNTech and Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine rollout programme, with the government aiming to vaccinate 13 million people in the top four priority groups by mid-February.
In a recent letter published by NHSEI on 7 January 2021, the NHS outlined its plans to vaccinate those frontline staff “at high risk of acquiring infection, at high individual risk of developing serious disease, or at risk of transmitting infection to multiple vulnerable persons or other staff in a healthcare environment.”
The decision to vaccinate frontline health and social workers follows the recommendations of an independent report from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JVCI) published on 30 December 2020, proposing “the first priorities for the COVID-19 vaccination programme should be the prevention of mortality and the maintenance of the health and social care systems.”
Welcoming the plans to vaccinate frontline health and social care workers, the BHTA has reinforced the need for a clear process to be in place to ensure eligible staff from its member companies are included amongst those who are next in line.
According to the association, it estimates that its members have over 100,000 face-to-face interactions with patients with long-term conditions, disabled and elderly people each week.
BHTA members play a vital role in the maintenance of health and social care systems and providing safe access to vital equipment needed to keep vulnerable people safe during lockdown. This goes further than the most obvious frontline staff, for example including retailers or service providers who provide mobility equipment.
Simon Festing, CEO of the British Healthcare Trades Association said:
“The BHTA and its members support the approach to prioritise frontline health and social care workers for vaccine delivery and wish to thank the NHS for the efforts made.
“It is important that there is now a clear process to be in place to ensure eligible staff from our member companies are included amongst those who are next in line.
“Staff employed by our member companies interact continuously with those who are disabled, or have long-term conditions, or are frail or elderly. This can be in a wide range of settings, including retail and service provision, and these wider health and social care settings should not be overlooked. “We will continue to work constructively with key stakeholders within the NHS and central government to champion the contribution of the industry, which is essential to ensure disabled and elderly people remain safe, mobile and independent; this is all the more vital now to help relieve pressure on the NHS.”
About the BHTA: Representing over 430 companies in the healthcare and assistive technology industry, the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) supports its members to help ensure the best outcomes for the most vulnerable in society. All BHTA members commit to the BHTA Code of Practice – the only code in the industry approved by The Chartered Trading Standards Institute.
For more information
Media contact: Calvin Barnett, Head of Marketing and Communications
Contact email: marketing@bhta.com
Published: 8th January 2021
*** For immediate release ***
Following the decision to introduce national lockdowns in England and Scotland, along with likely lockdown extensions in Wales and Northern Ireland, the BHTA has called on the UK government to provide additional support to business.
Responding to the lockdown announcement, Dr Simon Festing, CEO of the British Healthcare Trades Association, comments: “Given the mounting cases of COVID-19 and pressure facing the NHS, the BHTA recognises the need for government action.
“The BHTA would like to remind mobility and independent living retailers that they can continue to operate and keep their showrooms open as they are classed as ‘essential businesses’ by the government. This follows significant lobbying throughout 2020 by the Association to have the industry recognised for the vital work it does to keep elderly and vulnerable people mobile and independent. We welcome the government’s support to continue to identify our members as essential during this third lockdown.
“Despite being classed as ‘essential’, however, this lockdown will undoubtedly cause significant trade disruption for many of our retail members – particularly those with bricks and mortar stores, usually located in town centres. This is compounded with the reintroduction of shielding of the ‘clinically extremely vulnerable’ who are a key customer demographic for many of our members.
“To support these essential businesses, the BHTA is calling on the government to extend business rates relief from April 2021, helping retailers that have been impacted by repeated lockdowns.
“The BHTA is also working to provide additional support to the breadth of its membership during this period. In particular, the Association is providing enhanced support on Brexit and medical devices regulation whilst continuing to lobby for the best interests of our members at all levels of government and public authorities.
“In addition, the BHTA is working with all stakeholders to ensure patient-facing key workers within member companies are prioritised as high as possible on the vaccine provision list.
“Since the outbreak in March 2020, BHTA members have continued to abide by their ethical code of conduct, and gone above and beyond to ensure they are operating safely to protect vulnerable people. As the industry continues to deliver its services throughout this third lockdown, the BHTA urges its members to continue taking every COVID-secure precaution possible.”
Published: 5th January 2020
BHTA members have been supporting the NHS and healthcare Services with supplies of PPE.
If you are experiencing shortages of equipment please contact our members to see if they can help you.
Published: 6th May 2020
We are facing an unprecedented public health crisis, where only cooperation, understanding and resourcefulness will
help to maintain our vital services. Following detailed discussions Medequip Assistive Technology, NRS Healthcare,
Millbrook Healthcare, Ross Care and the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) have agreed to work closely
together to maximise continuity for local authorities and the NHS throughout the current Covid-19 crisis.
Optimising, planning and sharing information to ensure these organisations are able to provide maximum support for
their services, senior directors from each business are now holding weekly conference calls to discuss key areas such
as activity levels, geographical pressures and availability of qualified staff.
These levels of inter-company cooperation are designed to ensure best practice to maximise service user and
employee protection, and will deal with the management of key equipment and PPE availability as well as specific area
service continuity responses.
They are also extending to best practice utilisation of staff from other providers within geographic regions, such as
individuals who have been furloughed and kept on payroll, and also potentially providing assistance to vulnerable
groups with food and medicine distribution. This work is further enhanced by engagement with specialist teams set up
by the NHS and local authorities across the country.
Working closely together, the five organisations are totally committed to ensuring safe continuity of service provision
for the most vulnerable people in our communities.
Dr Simon Festing
Chief Executive Officer
British Healthcare Trades Association
Published: 26th March 2020
In light of the news that school closures have already started, the BHTA has appealed to government to clarify the definition
of “key workers”, and to include the medical device and assistive technology sector. BHTA has today written to DHSC,
MHCLG, NHS England and Local Government to urgently seek greater clarity.
The healthcare industries provide services which will be vital as the NHS comes under ever greater pressure. Beds will need
to be released as quickly as possible and patients returned to their own homes where they can be kept safe and allowed to
live independently. Members of our association are likewise involved in manufacturing key medical products and deliver
services such as decontamination of medical devices.
Some members companies of the Association have identified that up to 40% of their service/production work force would
have difficulty in continuing to attend to work which will then have a severe impact on their ability to continue to deliver
these services to the NHS.
Clarity is also sought over what are deemed essential products and services. Products in this sector range from profiling
beds needed urgently by hospitals, through to stoma and urology devices needed by patients both in hospital and at home,
and to items such as stairlifts, bathlifts, and wheelchairs. It is vital that these continue to be delivered, installed,
decontaminated, and repaired, for the safe care of patients in hospitals and care homes, and the safety of very vulnerable
members of the public in their own homes.
Manufacturers, suppliers and service providers are all putting appropriate measures in place to keep their staff and their
customers safe, but will need assistance, if key staff have had to self-isolate, in determining whether they can resume their
duties. Extension of testing to this sector will help immeasurably in ensuring continuity of supply to the NHS and to vulnerable
people, as will an assurance that they will be able to access protective garments such as masks to enable them to fulfil their duties.
Dr Simon Festing
CEO – British Healthcare Trades Association
Published: 19th March 2020