The British Association of Prosthetics and Orthotics

Search Results for: work experience

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Workforce Survey

Thanks to those who have responded to our ‘Workforce Survey’. This poll has been designed to get a perspective on members experiences and, through comments, their views on the current Covid-19 crisis; providing the opportunity to explain how this has affected them, the services where they work and patients they treat.

In responding to the crisis BAPO are engaging with patient/user groups and stakeholder bodies, and are seeking out concerns raised by their members. In addition we are also reaching out to the national P&O managers groups and employers to clarify if there is a shared position in response to the crisis.

Initial issues which have been raised include:-

  1. Unclear position on urgent care being offered
  2. Unclear provision for growth in children who depend on an orthosis or prosthesis
  3. What pathways will be available to those not be able to obtain a prothesis or orthosis?
  4. What are the plans to manage access once services resume (including how will the backlog be prioritised and will social distancing impact on capacity)?
  5. How can parents/users access advice (including access to remote advice and information)?

 

We aim to collate the returned initial views and opinions by Friday and then draw on those to produce initial guidelines for all stakeholders. This is so that they can be used to advise and signpost clinicians, managers, carers, parents and service users.

As a follow up we plan to organise a webinar for the week of May 4th to communicate with service users and stakeholders; to share those guidelines. BAPO will now aim to develop a consensus on the best way to manage the current challenges and those which will emerge as P&O clinical services reboot.

 

Best wishes

Lynne

Lynne Rowley

Chair BAPO

 

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Online workshop on #advancedpractice

BAPO members have been sent an Invitation to join an online workshop on #advancedpractice

Below is a Letter from Beverley Harden, the AHP Lead for Health Education England

I am writing to announce the launch of an online workshop on multi-professional advanced and consultant practice and to ask you join the discussion.

The workshop will run, initially, for a period of two weeks until Friday 16 November. During that time we are keen to get as many people involved in the discussion so that we can develop a much clearer understanding what is happening across health and care in advanced practice now, but even more importantly, what needs to change. Your views are critical to help Health Education England, NHSE and NHSI and others develop this role, working with employers, healthcare professionals, educators and trainers, professional bodies and regulators.

Participating is easy; simply register at the following site (https://advancedpractice.clevertogether.com) and get thinking! You can observe the discussion, post ideas or comments, or simply press a voting button to express support for an idea already up there. It really is that simple. What’s more it’s anonymous and moderated by our partners, innovation agency, Clever Together.

Please could you share widely across your networks, your communications teams and encourage people to ALSO sign up to https://www.hee.nhs.uk/our-work/advanced-clinical-practice/virtual-reference-group to stay updated after the workshop.

More background information is set out below, but once again, we’d really appreciate your participation so please do get involved.

With best wishes,

Beverley Harden

HEE AHP lead and National Lead for Multi-professional Advanced and Consultant Practice

 

Background

Why is this debate so important? The health and care system in England is evolving rapidly to deliver innovative models of care to meet the developing needs of individuals, families and communities. There is a growing consensus that if high quality patient care is to be sustained in the future, new and emerging roles will need to play a crucial part in the NHS.

One such group is likely to be those working at an advanced level of practice, experienced clinicians* who meet the four pillars of the Multi-professional framework for advanced clinical practice in England or the ’in development’ Multi-professional framework for consultant practice in England. This online workshop has been designed to enable us to listen to the views of all stakeholders as we in Health Education England seek to play our part in developing the workforce of the future.

The NHS (in England) Multi-professional framework for advanced clinical practice in England described the high-level imperative for a new approach to development and assurance for advanced clinical practice. This has been reiterated by many other individuals and organisations, such as the Nuffield Trust in their recent report looking at acute medical care in small hospitals. Advanced practice roles are seen across all areas of care e.g. in diagnostics, mental health, acute care, urgent and emergency care, rehabilitation, primary and community care, cancer, maternity, children’s and young people the list goes on.

But we need to take this further. We know we need to understand better the needs of employers, what the opportunities, risks and issues are for service, as well as any barriers which may exist to the development of these roles, including access to, and assurance of, the right education and training.

 

*In this context ‘experienced clinicians’ refers to all registered healthcare professionals, except registered medical professionals/doctors.

 

Our aims for this online workshop

  • Develop a better and more detailed understanding of the opportunities for advanced clinical practice and especially the needs of patients and how these roles can help NHS and other employers
  • Identify the challenges in developing advanced clinical practice in the workplace and what further assurance is needed in their education, training and supervision
  • Consider whether some form of supporting infrastructure is needed to develop advanced practice further, what its purpose would be and what roles it should undertake

 

How will the debate work?

  • The platform acts as an online workshop, where some broad questions are asked but in which participants lead the debate on what they see as important for advanced practice.
  • Participants’ contributions are anonymised. This ensures a safe space which allows for real conversation and innovation as peers judge ideas on their merit, not their author.
  • We’re seeking your views, experience and evidence. These can be on any topic or issue related to advanced clinical practice.
  • We invite you to rate and comment upon the contributions of your peers, too. This is really helpful in assessing whether issues are isolated, or whether they are reflected across organisations or systems.
  • As with a physical workshop, there may be strongly different views. Please respect the right of those with views differing from your own to express them.
  • This debate is designed for anyone with an interest in advanced practice but especially: patient representative organisations; healthcare professionals; NHS employers; other employing organisations; professional bodies; regulators; and arms-length bodies.
  • This is an independent debate: Clever Together has been asked to complete a thematic analysis to reveal priorities for HEE’s consideration.
  • Colleagues at HEE will report back on how they use the results of this debate to help steer and guide their planning and change programmes.
  • You will be able to see how your voice has been heard and how your inputs have been used, and by who (IT IS NOT A “BLACK HOLE” SURVEY).
  • Finally, although HEE’s remit is England only, we welcome feedback from everyone, we are keen to learn from experience across the UK or internationally.

Technician and Support Worker Committee

The Technician and Support Worker Committee is dedicated to advocating for our technical and support workforce, ensuring they have a voice within their professional body.  The committee is a key link to all other committees within BAPO, ensuring all relevant workstreams and consultations have the opportunity to be viewed through the lens of our technician colleagues.

If you are interested in joining the Technician committee, please email complete the form by clicking on the button below.

I would like to join the Technician and Support Worker Committee

Ann-Marie Mariner

COMMITTEE CHAIR

After graduating from AUB in 2008, Ann-Marie began her career as a prosthetic technician at the family-run Dorset Orthopaedic, which later became part of Ottobock in 2014. She is now Lead Technician at the Ringwood branch, with experience across all aspects of prosthetics and orthotics, including bespoke silicone prostheses and functional prosthetics. Ann-Marie has trained both new and experienced technicians in the UK and abroad and is often relied upon for troubleshooting and problem-solving. She is passionate about sharing knowledge, developing others, and showcasing the vital role of technicians within the profession

She shares her work on Instagram @hd_silicone_prosthetics.

    Andy Walker

    COMMMITTEE VICE-CHAIR

    I have been in orthotics for 35 years, starting as a footwear and Insoles technician, working my way up from footwear/insoles Supervisor to Production Manager and Operations Manager, and where I sit now as Contract Review and Technical Support Manager. I see myself as bridging the Gap between the Technician and Orthotist, making sure the technicians understand what the orthotists want and need, and making sure when the orthotist place their orders, all the spec is correct and fully understandable for manufacturing.

    My passion is collating ideas and getting best outcomes for all products made with a meeting of minds of technicians and Orthotists alike.

    Over the years, I have worked with some of the best Technicians in the country and have worked with some amazing, passionate Orthotists who love the work they do.

    It really is a job that makes so much difference to many lives that I will always love doing.

      Teri Jones

      COMMITTEE MEMBER

      I’m Teri, an Orthotics Technician with nearly 10 years’ experience at The Robert Jones & Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital. I began my career as an apprentice, completing an Engineering & Manufacturing course, and have since developed a broad skill set within orthotic fabrication. I now also support the training and development of apprentices and visiting students, something I find particularly rewarding.
       
      My main area of work is FFOs, although I also contribute to the manufacture of AFOs and CCDs. A large part of my role involves sewing adaptations to improve fit and function for patients, including work on wrist splints, helmets, straps, and occasional footwear modifications.
       
      More recently, our department has begun exploring 3D printing, an area I am especially enthusiastic about. With a background in Art & Design and an interest in CAD/CAM, I’m excited to be involved in integrating new technologies into orthotic practice.

        Brian Clements

        COMMITTEE MEMBER

        Brian Clements, a previous pattern maker and factory manager in the hat trade, I came into prosthetics 15 years ago as a technician, manufacturing, repairing and maintaining prosthetic devices. Brian also has experience in AFO and KFO repairs, moving into the role of workshop supervisor at the Luton and Dunstable limb fitting centre in 2020 and passing the PDA Rehabilitation Technologies course SCQF level 7 in 2018. Brian attended the 2025
         ISPO Stockholm conference as a moderator for the inaugural technical track program highlighting the importance of technicians in the P&O industry. 

          Philip Taylor

          COMMITTEE MEMBER

          As a result of contracting polio aged just two years old, I spent my school years in specialist schools for disabled children. My first experience of making orthopaedic footwear was at The Lord Mayor Treloar College in Hampshire at the age of just 11 years old. In 2025 I completed 60 years working in the industry.
           
          After working for three of the larger manufacturers of NHS footwear, at the age of 40 I set up my own company The Cordwainer, working with clients with complex footwear requirements. Although I am now working half time (I am now 72 years old) I still make around 75 pairs annually, of which around 10-15 are for NHS clients.
           
          During the years 2000-2010 I undertook many training sessions at Salford University teach orthotics students about assessing, measuring and making orthotic footwear, since 2020 I have been involved with teaching orthopaedic footwear students at DeMontfort University, Leicester,
           
          I have been campaigning for improvements in the way NHS is supplied through the various contract systems over the year, and I see first hand when things go wrong, and when orthotists themselves are unable to get the best for their patients. In 2011 I set up a conference at Leeds University based on the NHS Hutton Report of 2009, and in 2027 I hope to repeat this exercise in cooperation with a number of national disability groups. 
           
          In 2020 I published my book The Orthopaedic Shoemaker and has now sold over 300 copies worldwide. It is presently being translated into Chinese language.
           
          I am looking forward to contributing to this committee.

            Raja Nellayappan

            COMMITTEE MEMBER

            I am a Prosthetics and Orthotics Technician with over 18 years in the field, currently working at Dorset Orthopaedic in Manchester since 2022. My career began in Dubai in 2005, where I developed strong technical skills in fabricating and fitting prosthetic limbs and orthotic devices for a diverse range of patients, including those with limb loss, congenital limb differences, and neuromuscular conditions.

            I love designing and creating devices that truly transform patients’ lives, helping them regain independence and improve their day-to-day activities. Seeing the positive impact my work has on their confidence, mobility, and overall well-being is incredibly rewarding and motivates me to continually refine my skills. I take pride in collaborating closely with patients to understand their unique needs and lifestyle goals, ensuring each device is tailored for maximum comfort and functionality.

            I have a particular passion for research and innovation, focusing on developing flexible prosthetic sockets that integrate soft liners with hard laminated sockets to enhance patient comfort and mobility. Skilled in device customization and troubleshooting, I strive to improve outcomes and quality of life for my patients.

            I genuinely enjoy learning new techniques and advancements daily and maintain a positive, collaborative approach to my work. To deepen my knowledge and expand my professional capabilities, I am currently pursuing a Level 3 Prosthetics and Orthotics course at Derby University.

            I have been in orthotics for 35 years, starting as a footwear and Insoles technician, working my way up from footwear/insoles Supervisor to Production Manager and Operations Manager, and where I sit now as Contract Review and Technical Support Manager. I see myself as bridging the Gap between the Technician and Orthotist, making sure the technicians understand what the orthotists want and need, and making sure when the orthotist place their orders, all the spec is correct and fully understandable for manufacturing.

            My passion is collating ideas and getting best outcomes for all products made with a meeting of minds of technicians and Orthotists alike.

            Over the years, I have worked with some of the best Technicians in the country and have worked with some amazing, passionate Orthotists who love the work they do.

            It really is a job that makes so much difference to many lives that I will always love doing.

              Isabella Proctor

              COMMITTEE MEMBER

              I have worked in the NHS for 23 years now. Initially as a support worker for Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy within a Neurological Physical Disability Rehabilitation service. I joined the Orthotic service in 2016 as a Senior Clinical Assistant before successfully being appointed as Clinical Assistant Team Lead.

              I am passionate about support worker education and have always advocated for education opportunities for health care support staff in my previous and current roles. I believe support staff are the backbone of any establishment and that everyone no matter how big or small their role may be, play a vital part within the bigger picture of the service.
              I am delighted to be part of the committee and look forward to the opportunities and change we can create for the wider network as a team.

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                Congratulations to the BAPO Career Outreach Team!

                We are delighted to congratulate the Career Outreach and Work Experience Initiative Team from the British Association of Prosthetics and Orthotics on winning the British Association of Prosthetics and Orthotics Award for Evidencing Impact and Excellence in Prosthetics and Orthotics, sponsored by BAPO, at the Advancing Healthcare Awards 2026.

                🥇 WINNER
                Career Outreach and Work Experience Initiative
                The Career Outreach Team, British Association of Prosthetics and Orthotics

                This prestigious recognition celebrates the team’s outstanding commitment to promoting prosthetics and orthotics as a career, supporting work experience opportunities, and inspiring the next generation of professionals. Their dedication is helping to strengthen the future workforce and raise the profile of prosthetics and orthotics across the UK.

                👏 Highly Commended
                Queen Mary’s Hospital Orthotic Department – Pectus Carinatum Bracing Service
                Jack Presnell, Assistant Clinical Lead Orthotist; Andy Kelly and Tom Williams, Senior Technicians; and Diana Chau, Orthotist, Queen Mary’s Hospital, Roehampton.

                🌟 Finalist
                Active Neuro Rehabilitation Hub – Gateshead Amputee Service
                Gemma Stoddart, Lead Physiotherapist; Rachel Lees, Lead Occupational Therapist; and Gail Archer, Senior Lead Occupational Therapist.

                Congratulations to everyone recognised in this category at the Advancing Healthcare Awards 2026. Your work demonstrates the innovation, collaboration and excellence that continue to advance prosthetic and orthotic care and improve outcomes for patients.

                📸 Photo credit: John Behets Photography.

                Future Clinician Series

                Introducing the Future Clinician Series

                The Future Clinician Series is BAPO’s ongoing quarterly webinar programme, developed with the BAPO Learner Network to support P&O learners and early-career practitioners. Each session explores the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours that help bridge the gap between university and clinical practice, empowering the next generation of confident, capable clinicians.

                When: Quarterly Wednesday webinars

                Who can attend: Open to the BAPO Learner Network and the wider P&O community

                Register your interest: Scan the QR code or follow the link below to receive updates and be the first to hear about future sessions. Once you register your interest, a Teams link will be sent to you for all upcoming sessions.

                Future Clinician Series – Fill in form

                Keep an eye on this page for upcoming sessions.

                Upcoming Future Clinician Series

                Past Future Clinician Series

                17 Jun
                WED

                Navigating the transition into clinical responsibility and early-career practice.

                Robert Baranowski-West

                Watch Recording
                25 Mar
                WED

                Turning placements and work experience into real learning.

                Laura Murray

                Watch Recording

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                Advancing Healthcare 2026

                BAPO Proudly Sponsors Award at the Advancing Healthcare Awards 2026

                We’re proud to announce that BAPO is sponsoring the BAPO Award for Evidencing Impact & Excellence in Prosthetics & Orthotics at the Advancing Healthcare Awards 2026.

                The Advancing Healthcare Awards recognise and celebrate the work of allied health professionals, healthcare scientists and those working alongside them in essential support roles, who are leading innovative healthcare practice across the UK. For more than 20 years, the Awards have built a strong sense of community—recognising excellence not only through award winners and finalists, but also through the ongoing support of loyal sponsors and partners.

                BAPO’s sponsorship reflects our continued commitment to advancing standards within prosthetics and orthotics. This award will recognise projects and services that clearly evidence impact, innovation and excellence, making a measurable difference to patient outcomes while demonstrating leadership, service-user involvement and effective use of resources.

                Submitting an entry to the Advancing Healthcare Awards offers a unique opportunity to shine a spotlight on the outstanding work being delivered across healthcare and to become part of the wider Advancing Healthcare Awards community and professional networks.

                The Advancing Healthcare Awards are organised by Chamberlain Dunn, an award-winning events and creative design company with 30 years’ experience and expertise in delivering prestigious healthcare awards programmes.

                 

                Photo credit: John Behets Photography 

                Congratulations to the BAPO Career Outreach Team!

                We are delighted to congratulate the Career Outreach and Work Experience Initiative Team from the British Association of Prosthetics and Orthotics on winning the British Association of Prosthetics and Orthotics Award for Evidencing Impact and Excellence in Prosthetics and Orthotics, sponsored by BAPO, at the Advancing Healthcare Awards 2026.

                WINNER Career Outreach and Work Experience Initiative The Career Outreach Team, British Association of Prosthetics and Orthotics This prestigious recognition celebrates the team’s outstanding commitment to promoting prosthetics and orthotics as a career, supporting work experience opportunities, and inspiring the next generation of professionals. Their dedication is helping to strengthen the future workforce and raise the profile of prosthetics and orthotics across the UK.

                Highly Commended Queen Mary’s Hospital Orthotic Department – Pectus Carinatum Bracing Service Jack Presnell, Assistant Clinical Lead Orthotist; Andy Kelly and Tom Williams, Senior Technicians; and Diana Chau, Orthotist, Queen Mary’s Hospital, Roehampton. 

                Finalist Active Neuro Rehabilitation Hub – Gateshead Amputee Service Gemma Stoddart, Lead Physiotherapist; Rachel Lees, Lead Occupational Therapist; and Gail Archer, Senior Lead Occupational Therapist. Congratulations to everyone recognised in this category at the Advancing Healthcare Awards 2026. Your work demonstrates the innovation, collaboration and excellence that continue to advance prosthetic and orthotic care and improve outcomes for patients. 📸

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                The P&O Research Brief Podcast

                The P&O Research Brief is a podcast series from the British Association of Prosthetics and Orthotics (BAPO), created to make research more accessible, relevant and easier to apply.

                Developed primarily for prosthetic and orthotic students, apprentices and new graduates, each episode explores a published research paper and breaks it down into clear, practical insights.

                 

                Listen to The P&O Research Brief

                Explore the latest episodes and discover research relevant to prosthetics, orthotics and the wider health and rehabilitation landscape.

                Listen on Apple Podcasts

                Listen on Amazon Music

                About the podcast

                Understanding research is an essential part of evidence-informed practice, but academic papers can sometimes feel complex or difficult to navigate.

                The P&O Research Brief helps listeners understand:

                • What the study investigated
                • How the research was conducted
                • Why the methods matter
                • What the researchers found
                • What the findings could mean for prosthetic and orthotic practice
                • The strengths, limitations and wider implications of the research

                Key terminology, research methods and clinical concepts are explained in plain language, helping listeners build their confidence in reading, evaluating and applying evidence.

                Connecting research with practice

                The podcast focuses on research directly relevant to prosthetics and orthotics while also exploring wider topics that offer valuable lessons for the profession. These may include:

                • Rehabilitation
                • Biomechanics
                • Education and training
                • Research methodology
                • Leadership
                • Service delivery
                • Patient experience
                • Wider health and care research

                By connecting published evidence with real-world clinical thinking, The P&O Research Brief aims to support the development of thoughtful, curious and evidence-informed practitioners.

                Who is the podcast for?

                The series has been created primarily for:

                • Prosthetic and orthotic students
                • Apprentices
                • Newly qualified prosthetists and orthotists
                • Early-career professionals

                It may also be valuable for practising clinicians, educators, researchers, technicians, support workers and others across the wider prosthetic and orthotic workforce who want an accessible way to engage with research and support their continuing professional development.

                What you can expect

                Each episode offers a clear and focused exploration of one published paper. You do not need an advanced understanding of research to listen—just an interest in learning more about the evidence that shapes prosthetic and orthotic care.

                Whether you are beginning to explore academic research or looking for a convenient way to stay connected with emerging evidence, The P&O Research Brief will help you consider not only what a study found, but why it matters.

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                BAPO Regional Conference Wales

                Wales 2026 Itinerary_floorplan FINAL6Download

                THE BAPO REGIONAL CONFERENCE WALES 2026 HAS SOLD OUT! 

                Thank you for the incredible response! We cannot wait to welcome delegates to ICC Wales on Friday 4th September 2026. If you would still like to attend, you can request to join our waiting list. Should a space become available, we will contact those on the waiting list directly.

                Join the waiting list by completing the form below: 🔗 https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/eg2kRbbTW9

                Please note that joining the waiting list does not guarantee a place.

                📅 Friday 4th September 2026
                📍 The ICC Wales, Coldra Wood, Newport NP18 1DE

                Theme: “Beyond the device”

                This year’s conference will feature an engaging and diverse programme, including:

                • Four keynote speakers

                • Six oral presentations

                • Poster displays

                • Lunch and refreshments throughout the day included.

                BAPO members will receive fully funded tickets to attend.

                Non- members will be priced at £110.00 for an early bird ticket (Until 03/07/26) and £130.00 for a standard ticket.

                Tickets are now live — we encourage you to book early, as our last conference in Oxford sold out quickly!

                Ticket sales will close on Thursday, 27 August.

                Make sure to secure your place before the deadline, as no further bookings will be accepted after ticket sales close.

                We look forward to welcoming you to an inspiring day focused on patient-centred care.

                BAPO  Networking Evening

                Why not join us the evening before the conference and awards for an informal networking opportunity with fellow delegates, exhibitors, speakers, sponsors, and members of the BAPO team?

                The BAPO team will be staying at the Ty Newport,Hotel on both Thursday and Friday evenings and would be delighted to welcome delegates for a relaxed evening of conversation and networking in the hotel bar on Thursday 3rd September 2026.

                Whether you are attending the conference, the awards ceremony, or both, this is a great opportunity to connect with colleagues from across the profession, meet new contacts, and catch up with friends in an informal setting before the main events begin.

                Venue: Ty Newport, Hotel
                Date: Thursday 3rd September 2026
                Time: From 7:00pm onwards (informal drop-in)

                If you are planning to stay at the hotel, delegates can access a discounted accommodation rate (based on best availability so be sure to book at your earliest convenience to secure the best rate) which you will receive upon booking tickets to the events when booking.

                We look forward to seeing you there and kicking off a fantastic BAPO Conference and P&O Awards weekend together.

                Dr Annie Price – Proudly sponsored by Thuasne

                Consultant in Rehabilitation Medicine

                Dr Annie Price is a consultant in Rehabilitation Medicine. She completed her training in Wales in 2024. She now works as a consultant in Cardiff at the Artificial Limb and Appliance Centre, specialising in amputee rehabilitation. She has an interest in medical education and is an honorary lecturer at Cardiff University, contributing to teaching of undergraduate and postgraduate students. Before starting her training in rehabilitation medicine, she worked in a Wound Healing centre and has published articles and book chapters in this field.

                Dr Annie Price will be presenting a summary of complex cases to highlight the importance of joint working between acute and rehabilitation services, the value of collaborative MDT working and the role of rehabilitation physicians in co-ordinating care.

                  Professor Stella Vig

                  Deputy National Medical Director for Secondary Care and Quality
                  National Clinical Director for Elective Care
                  Chief Clinical Transformation Officer for SWL ICB
                  Consultant Vascular and General Surgeon
                  Honorary Professor of Practice, UCL

                  Stella brings over 30 years of NHS experience, with a career spanning clinical practice, strategic leadership, and system-wide transformation. As a consultant in vascular and general surgery at Croydon University Hospital since 2006, she has consistently driven service improvement and operational excellence.
                  In her national roles as Deputy National Medical Director for Secondary Care and Quality, and National Clinical Director for Elective Care at NHS England, Stella leads initiatives to improve patient safety, streamline elective care, and enhance clinical pathways through data-driven decision-making.
                  Most recently, Stella serves as Joint Chief Clinical Transformation Officer at Southwest London ICB, shaping long-term clinical strategy and optimising service delivery. Stella also continues to champion the Croydon Elective Centre, ensuring continuity of planned care even during peak demand.
                  Across all her roles, Stella is recognised for her collaborative leadership and ability to deliver scalable, impactful improvements in healthcare quality and efficiency.

                    Juliet Sturgess – Proudly sponsored by OETT

                    Associate Director for the Allied Health Professions (AHPs) at Dorset County Hospital

                    Juliet Sturgess graduated from Salford University in 2002 with a BSc in Prosthetics and Orthotics.  Her clinical career in orthotics spanned over 20 years and Juliet grasped opportunities to develop leadership skills through working for BAPO, leadership fellowships and national roles with NHS England.  Juliet was pivotal in the development of apprenticeships in Prosthetics and Orthotics and subsequently helped other professions to do the same.  Appointed as Associate Director for the Allied Health Professions (AHPs) at Dorset County Hospital in October 2023, Juliet focuses on maximising the impact of each of the twelve allied health professions she oversees.  In October 2025, she became one of the first AHPs in England to receive the prestigious Gold Award for Excellence from the Chief Allied Health Professions Officer for England for her contributions to the prosthetics and orthotics professions, advocacy in healthcare education and wider contributions to the AHP community.
                     

                      Exhbitors

                      Book Now

                      Call for Abstracts

                      Call for abstracts has now closed and we are now contacting individuals if they have been successful in their submissions. Thank you to everyone who took the time to submit an abstract. The level of submissions was extremely high. 

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                      Elections to the BAPO Executive Committee 2026 – 2028

                      Nominations for election onto the BAPO Executive Committee have closed and we are delighted to have 2 Full BAPO members and 1 Associate member who wish their names to go forward for your Executive Committee vote.  All were correctly proposed and seconded by other Full members or other Associate members.


                      The nominees are Nicola McCormack, Andy Walker and Eileen Morrow.  
                      You can view the information about the nominees below:

                      Nicola McCormack

                      Nicola McCormack

                      Please tell us about your professional background and any specific areas of interest which align with BAPO’s mission, aims, and values.

                      I have held the position of Head of Prosthetics and Orthotics Services within NHS Lothian, Scotland, since August 2024. In this role, I provide strategic and operational leadership for prosthetic and orthotic service delivery, ensuring high standards of patient care and professional practice. In addition to my NHS role, I am a Clinical Examiner at the University of Strathclyde ensuring consistency and high standards are maintained. I am also a member of the Biomedical Engineering Industrial and Clinical Advisory Group at the University where I am involved in reviewing and providing feedback on plans and progress, offer insights and recommendations, and help identify potential opportunities and challenges.


                      I also established and currently chair the Prosthetics Managers and Leads Group in Scotland, creating a national forum for collaboration, shared learning, and strategic discussion. Within my full-time role, I am a strong advocate for structured career progression pathways for both clinical and technical Prosthetics and Orthotics staff. This work is aimed at improving staff retention and safeguarding valuable skills, expertise, and institutional knowledge within the profession. I am passionate about promoting Prosthetics and Orthotics as a viable and rewarding career and actively support my teams to participate in career events to raise awareness and inspire future entrants to the field.

                      What skills and experience will you bring to BAPO’s Executive Committee?

                      I have worked clinically as an Orthotist for approximately 30 years and bring extensive, broad-based experience gained across all clinical specialities within Orthotics. During this time, I have held a range of roles, including as Clinical Lead for Orthotics for 12 years, where I provided leadership, clinical oversight, and service development.


                      Since August 2024, I have been working as Head of Prosthetics and Orthotics Services, initially in an interim capacity before being appointed to the role on a permanent basis in May 2025. I have substantial experience managing both clinical and technical Prosthetics and Orthotics services, with a strong focus on service quality, workforce development, and strategic.

                      I am the Professional Lead for Prosthetics and Orthotics Services within NHS Lothian. In this role, I represent the professional voice at all organisational levels, contributing to strategic discussions and decision-making across NHS Lothian, Integrated Joint Boards, and at a national level.

                      Why do you want to be elected onto the EC?

                      I was co opted onto the Executive Committee towards the end of 2025 and have since actively contributed through attendance at two scheduled Executive Committee meetings, as well as an additional urgent meeting where timely decision making was required. Through this role, I have already gained valuable insight into the strategic priorities and operational challenges facing the organisation.
                      I have been involved in working with centres across the UK and the Limbless Association to help produce Easy Read Patient leaflets, helping to improve accessibility and patient understanding. In my substantive NHS roles, I have developed strong skills in strategic oversight, governance, and assurance, and have significant experience working within complex systems and managing diverse issues. I am comfortable making informed decisions under pressure and balancing competing priorities. As an Executive Committee member, I am keen to continue applying these skills to contribute positively to BAPO’s policy development, strategic direction, and long term sustainability.

                      Andy Walker

                      Andy Walker

                      Please tell us about your professional background and any specific areas of interest which align with BAPO’s mission, aims, and values.

                      I have Been in the Orthotics Trade for 36 years in June and have worked my Way up From Being a Technician Doing Footwear Repairs and Adaptions and Making Footwear and Insoles and Helmets to Being a Footwear and insoles Supervisor then an assistant production manager/Production Manager/Quality Control Manager also Operations Manager and Now Contract Review and Technical Support Manager, I love Working with Orthotists Sharing Best Practices that have Worked over time for Complex Patients to get best outcomes and Making Prescriptions User Friendly for the Technicians Making the devices so the orthotists receive What they where Expecting i also have a good Under standing of Podiatry needs for there devices and Most Orthotic Bespoke Devices From Head to Toe.

                      What skills and experience will you bring to BAPO’s Executive Committee?

                      I bring a vast wealth of experience of making the devices as well as Understanding what works and what Doesn’t and Prescribing Trends and What hasn’t worked so Comes back to be Altered or remade and its These practices i want to share because less appointments can save the NHS well needed Money i think a closer working relationship between Orthotists and Technicians is Essential Under standing the information on a Prescription/Spec is Essential too many times i have seen work just put into the Factories and the Correct Understanding of what is wanted or required not Understood.That is why i am a big advocate For Having a skilled Contract Review Worker/Technician At the Very start of the Process to Make sure Things are Understood and made Correct.

                      Why do you want to be elected onto the EC?

                      I would like to think i have got a lot to bring to the table in Orthotics i always have and always will believe its not about the device you make its about the way you can change a patients life/Mobility and Mental Well Being i was also always shown if it wouldn’t do for your family and Friends then its not good enough for a patient do it right and take care and pride it what you produce and that goes with every job i do i like to give 110 percent and leave no stone unturned to get the best outcome.

                      Eileen Morrow

                      Please tell us about your professional background and any specific areas of interest which align with BAPO’s mission, aims, and values.

                      I am a clinical academic orthotist. I am currently completing an NIHR Doctoral Clinical Academic Fellowship at the University of Oxford. My clinical background spans paediatric and adult orthopaedics, neurological rehabilitation and gat laboratory. Alongside this, my research focuses on improving outcomes in children’s orthopaedic surgery, currently through developing a core outcome set to ensure research measures what actually matters to patients.

                      My main areas of interest align closely with BAPO’s aims around advancing the profession through research, evidence-based practice and policy. I am particularly interested in strengthening research culture within prosthetics and orthotics, improving the quality and consistency of evidence and ensuring that our profession has a clear and credible voice in national policy discussions. I am also passionate about supporting clinicians to engage in research in a way that feels achievable and relevant to practice.

                      What skills and experience will you bring to BAPO’s Executive Committee?

                      I bring a combination of clinical, research and policy experience, along with a good understanding of how these areas connect in practice. Through my doctoral work, I have developed strong skills in evidence synthesis and research methodology, which I have already applied to support colleagues and contribute to national work. As previous BAPO Research Committee Chair, I have experience of working at a national level, coordinating input from clinicians, academics and external partners and representing the profession in discussions around research priorities and workforce challenges.

                      I am used to working across different groups with different perspectives, whether that’s patients, clinicians, researchers or policymakers, and helping to find common ground. I am also comfortable communicating complex ideas in a way that is practical and accessible. Alongside this, I have experience of supporting others to engage in research, reviewing grant applications, contributing to guideline development and policy responses.

                      Why do you want to be elected onto the EC?

                      I have found my previous involvement with BAPO to be rewarding, and I would like to continue contributing at a wider level. I think BAPO plays a really important role in shaping the future of the profession, particularly at a time where there is increasing focus on workforce, and how allied health professions contribute to wider health policy.

                      From my own experience, I have seen how easily prosthetics and orthotics can be overlooked in national conversations, despite the impact we have on patient outcomes. I am motivated to help ensure that the profession is well represented, we are contributing to policy in a meaningful way and that we continue to strengthen our research culture.

                      I would also like to support BAPO in making research and evidence more accessible to clinicians, so that engagement doesn’t feel like something “extra” but becomes part of everyday practice. I think I can bring practical experience and a willingness to contribute to the work of the Executive Committee.

                       

                      Voting closes at 11:59pm on Wednesday 6th May 2026

                      The results of the vote will be shared at the BAPO AGM on Wednesday 13th May 2026

                      If you have not already registered to attend you can complete the BAPO AGM Registration Form.

                      We hope to see as many BAPO members at the AGM as possible.  BAPO is your organisation, and we look forward to some interesting discussions on the night.

                      Please note: Full members can only vote for full members, and associates can only vote for associates – sections 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 of the standing orders. 

                      Submit your vote here

                      by

                      Bursary applications for the Masters for Research Delivery Leadership are now open!

                      What is the Masters for Research Delivery Leadership (MRDL)?

                      The MRDL is a national framework of master’s-level qualifications designed to help experienced healthcare practitioners develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to lead and support clinical research studies. 

                      Find out more about the Masters for Research Delivery Leadership

                      These flexible courses support health and care professionals to advance their research careers by gaining the qualifications and experience needed to step into leadership roles such as co-investigator and principal investigator. 

                      Registered health and care professionals can apply for up to 3 years of funding to complete a postgraduate certificate, postgraduate diploma or masters degree aligned with the MRDL.

                      Who can apply?

                      The bursaries are now open to all registered health and care professionals, including doctors, dentists and clinical research practitioners.

                      Important information

                      • Application deadline: 1st July 2026 (12:00pm)
                      • Please note: You must have applied for a university course before applying for a bursary
                      • For more info, see full eligibility criteria & learn how to apply: Visit the NIHR website
                      • For more information please don’t hesitate to contact us at: MRDL@nihr.ac.uk
                      • Students applying to King’s College London (KCL), please note that the university is currently updating and improving its course modules, and course applications will open very soon. In the meantime, you can start your bursary application and save it as a draft while you wait for your student ID.

                      Apply for the MRDL Bursary Today