Dear BSHAA Members,
What a year 2021 has proved to be – never quite sure where the next turn of events would take us, and it looks as if 2022 may turn out to be just as full of surprises. Despite all the twists and turns, the general feeling I get from BSHAA members is that we have never been so busy, as we have adapted to the changes, and found even more demand knocking on our doors. It is good that we have been able to continue providing such a highly valued level of care and long may it continue.
As we near the end of the year, I am sorry to say goodbye to Andrew Coulter after the strong leadership he has given to BSHAA over his 4-years in the presidential roles – we will all miss that leadership, and I personally will miss his energy, support and gentle guidance that I’ve valued over the last year especially. I look forward to Rob Donnan taking up his role as Vice president next year, and hope that I will be able to provide him with similar level of support and encouragement as I’ve had from Andrew.
As we look forward, I’m pleased to welcome Tasso Papadopoulos and Ken Gilliard onto Council, sadly at the expense of Sam Dixon and Heather Kennington, both of whom needed to find more time for the next stage of their professional development – we will miss them.
Finally, as we look forward to the new challenges of 2022, I wanted to let you know that a few months ago, David Welbourn our Chief Executive, indicated his intention to retire from BSHAA in the summer of 2022, so that he could concentrate on other business and personal priorities. David announced his plans early, so that we had plenty of time to make suitable plans for a smooth succession. We will be beginning the search process early in the New Year. It is with utmost respect and regard that we bid farewell to him. On behalf of BSHAA, we wish to thank him for all his support and guidance during the years and a very happy and well-deserved retirement.
On behalf of BSHAA, to each of you, we thank you for your commitment all year long. As we spend time with our families, we hope you are spending quality time with those you love, creating memories and living your lives to the fullest. Have a safe and responsible New Year’s celebration as you bring in 2022 and we wish you all a happy, peaceful, successful and prosperous coming New Year.
Raul