“Happy New Year to you all. In light of the spread of the Omicron variant of coronavirus, many of us will have spent a quieter Christmas than had been planned. Despite that, I hope you managed to enjoy yourselves and make the most of the Christmas break.
December is a time when we invite the people who have helped us during the year to get together for lunch – it’s our way of saying thank you. In 2021, we were unable to do so, for obvious reasons. This was disappointing, but inevitable under the circumstances.
Despite the challenges we all face, much is planned for this year. Our first event is a one-hour webinar that aims to help you to thrive at work and help you to ensure that every day is as good as it can be.
Shortly after that, we will launch our new website – a newly developed digital platform that will be a flexible and useful place where members will find resources especially for them. We are excited about this and will share the news of our launch date very soon.
Our new-format AWCF course is almost ready for launch too. It will be a mix of in-person and online learning with mentors to inspire and support you.
Our AGM – which will also be held in-person and online – will take place on 21 May at the Forge at Stoneleigh. All members are welcome to attend. As the BFBA Presidency is a two-year role. it will be an opportunity for members to vote for – and welcome – our next President.
This issue of Forge contains lots of features, which we hope you will find interesting. If you feel inspired to write, we would be delighted to hear from you. We also review the achievements of 2021 and look forward to some of the activities planned for the year.
For now, I hope you and your families remain well. We all need to follow the government’s rules whether we are in England or the devolved nations. As the Prime Minister has said, ‘It is folly to think the pandemic is over’. We need to look after ourselves and each other. I urge you to get vaccinated.”
Craig D’Arcy.
