The British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists

Archives for May 2025

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BAPO Teatime Talk – The Prosthetics and Orthotics Profession in New Zealand

Details

The presentation will include an overview of opportunities for Prosthetists and Orthotists in New Zealand, focusing on various companies, contracts, and the district health board, as well as insights into ACC-related work. 

I will share a brief presentation detailing my professional development in New Zealand, highlighting my role as a Clinical Orthotist for Peke Waihanga and my position as an executive member of NZOPA. Following this, I will discuss the New Zealand Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (NZOPA), addressing both the successes and challenges we encounter in the field. 

Additionally, I will present relevant statistics regarding the workforce size, the patient population we serve, and key metrics such as referral and wait times. 

 

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BAPO Teatime Talk – Multidisciplinary Care in Rheumatology: The Role of the Podiatrist and Opportunities for Orthotist Integration

Details

In this talk, I will explore the role of the podiatrist within a Rheumatology multidisciplinary team (MDT), with a focus on collaborative care and how orthotists can contribute to and complement this approach. The session will cover:

  • Common rheumatological conditions encountered
  • A holistic approach to patient assessment
  • Podiatric treatments and interventions
  • Patient advice and education
  • The referral process within the MDT
  • Roles of other MDT members, including orthotists
  • Key clinical guidance and pathways we follow

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BAPO Launches Updated Curriculum Guide for Pre-Registration of Prosthetists and Orthotists

The British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists (BAPO) is proud to launch the newly updated Curriculum Guide designed to support the pre-registration training of prosthetists and orthotists. This essential resource reflects the latest in clinical education, professional standards, and workplace readiness.

🔍 What’s New in the Curriculum Guide?
✨ Pre-Preceptorship
✨ Preceptorship
✨ Foundation Support
✨ Defined practice-based learning hours – bringing clarity to clinical requirements
✨ Delivery of practice-based learning
✨ Simulation
✨ Preparing learners to enter the workplace

💡 Whether you’re a learner starting your journey or a practice educator shaping the next generation, this guide supports high-quality, consistent learning experiences across the UK.

📥 Download the updated guide here.

🙌 Let’s work together to enable excellence in prosthetic and orthotic care.

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BAPO Announces Exciting New Initiative to Showcase Industry Innovation

The British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists (BAPO) is proud to launch a brand-new initiative designed to strengthen collaboration with our valued industry partners and provide an engaging platform for them to showcase their latest products, technologies, and research developments.

This initiative reflects BAPO’s ongoing commitment to supporting innovation within the prosthetics and orthotics profession. By offering our partners enhanced visibility and opportunities for engagement, we aim to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, promote clinical excellence, and ensure our members remain at the forefront of industry advancements.

Dr. Nicky Eddison, Chair of BAPO, shared her enthusiasm about the launch:

“The products our industry partners develop and manufacture are a cornerstone of the prosthetics and orthotics profession. These innovations directly impact clinical practice and service user outcomes. This initiative is not only about sharing new developments—it’s about deepening our partnerships and building a stronger, more connected professional community.”

The initiative will include a variety of opportunities for industry partners to engage with the BAPO community. These will range from dedicated product features and research spotlights in BAPO publications to sponsored webinars, live demonstrations, and presence at key events such as the annual BAPO conference.

By providing these platforms, BAPO aims to encourage dialogue between our clinicians and industry partners—fostering a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and shared learning. BAPO invites all current and prospective partners to take part in this exciting opportunity to contribute to the ongoing evolution of the profession.

For more information on how to get involved, please contact enquiries@BAPO.com or visit our Tech and Trends page: https://www.bapo.com/tech-and-trends/

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British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists

Annual General Meeting

Monday 30th June 2025

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists will take place on MS Teams on Monday 30th June 2025 at 19:00 to which all BAPO members are invited.

Nominations for Executive Committee membership

Nominations are invited for membership of the Executive Committee, and you can access the form to do this by clicking nomination form. Nominations will close on 30th May 2025 at 23:59.

Voting for Executive Committee membership

Voting will follow once nominations close and a link to vote will be sent to you in a separate email. Voting will open on 9th June 2025 and will close on 23rd June 2025.

AGM attendance

In order to attend the AGM you will need to register by clicking registration form. A Teams link for the meeting will be emailed to all who have registered on 16th June 2025. 

Meeting papers

Meeting papers will be shared with all members on the 16th June 2025.

Submission of agenda items and questions

Agenda items and questions are requested from members of the Association and should be submitted electronically to enquiries@bapo.com no later than 30th May 2025. This will ensure the fullest response, particularly in the event that you are unable to attend the meeting. A submitted question may be read by the member raising the issue or a member of the EC if preferred by the questioner. Where necessary, agenda items will be voted upon in the AGM.

Why attend the AGM?

BAPO is a member run professional body, and the views of the members are vital to its development and direction. Various agenda items may require a vote of the membership in attendance, and this is your chance to have your say on these items. Past AGMs have provided a time for constructive discussion of key issues concerning BAPO members and the EC hope that this AGM will provide similar opportunities. 

 

I look forward to hearing from you in due course and hope you can attend the meeting.

Yours sincerely

 

Sophie Hill

Secretary

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Previous Award Winners

Recognising Excellence in Prosthetics and Orthotics

Prosthetist of the Year

Zoe Savage – Winner 2021 (Inaugural)

Zoe was the inaugural recipient of the Prosthetist of the Year award in 2021. Reflecting on her achievement, Zoe stated: 

“Receiving this award would not have been possible without the inspiration I have received from my manager and my colleagues, for whom I have the deepest respect, and from whom I have derived the strength to challenge myself and perform better.”

 

Caroline Clark – Winner 2022 (Patient-Nominated)

Caroline was nominated by her long-time patient, Lisa, who recognised Caroline’s unwavering dedication, clinical expertise, and the personal care she offers each of her patients. Lisa shared:

“I don’t know what I’d have done without her!”

Caroline’s compassionate approach and commitment to patient-centred care left a lasting impression.

Rose Morris – Winner 2022 (Professional-Nominated)

Rose was recognised for her longstanding dedication to supporting prosthetics and orthotics students as a practice educator. She has played an instrumental role in inspiring and mentoring the next generation of professionals, providing guidance, encouragement, and leadership throughout her career.

Orthotist of the Year

Steve Musgrove – Winner 2021 (Inaugural)

Steve received the inaugural Orthotist of the Year award for his tireless dedication to patient care, particularly for younger patients undergoing orthotic treatment. Nominated by a colleague, Steve was praised for consistently “going the extra mile.”

Gordon Steel – Winner 2022

Nominated by a peer, Gordon was honoured for a distinguished career devoted to clinical excellence, education, and mentorship. A lifelong learner and dedicated clinician, Gordon has supported countless patients, colleagues, and students throughout his career.

Kate Chauhan – Winner 2023

Described as an inspiration by her nominator, Kate was recognised for her passionate commitment to her work, as well as her contributions to research and innovation within the field of orthotics.

Student Placement of the Year

Sarah Stewart – Winner 2023 (Inaugural)

Sarah was nominated by her practice educator, who highlighted her professionalism, patient rapport, and willingness to engage fully in every learning opportunity. Her experience ranged from paediatric scoliosis clinics to diabetic MDT settings.

“Sarah has a natural ability to put patients at ease, a flair for communication, and a holistic understanding of patients’ goals and lifestyles. She demonstrates sound clinical judgement and a strong commitment to best practice.”