annual report 2013 - 2014 · 3 the bcla annual repotr 2013-2014 Ô letter from the president as i...

The BCLA AnnuAL RepoRT 2013-2014

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Annual Report 2013 - 2014


Introduction● At the 2013 Clinical Conference, past president Shelly Bansal talked about the BCLA’s ‘Vision of the future’ and how that might be realised through ‘partnership, Leadership and Community’. It is my aim to carry on all the great work that has already been undertaken, not least by former BCLA Secretary General Vivien Freeman, and help the BCLA to move forwards and grow – in quantity and quality.

What makes BCLA membership unique is that as well as gaining access to free and discounted on and offline professional and educational resources, our members are part of a global community of contact lens professionals who are passionate about their chosen field and about providing the best care they can for patients – in whatever section they are working within.

The BCLA is at the forefront of research and development in contact lenses and the anterior eye, and its members both in the uK and overseas are truly inspirational. Whether you work in the contact lens industry, are still studying, working in academia or in everyday high Street practice, BCLA membership is the gateway to all that’s amazing in the world of contact lenses and the anterior eye. Throughout the past year, the BCLA office team, Council, committee members and consultants have dedicated considerable time and energy to ensuring that members in every section – as well as our young student members – can maximise all the opportunities that BCLA membership brings. But there is still much work to be done.

The 2013-14 Annual Report provides an overview of the Association’s activities that have helped us achieve our goals – and we will continue striving to improve our service and offer to all members and partners within industry and academia.

on behalf of the BCLA executive Committee, I would like to thank all of our members and partners for their ongoing support, which directly contributes to the success of the Association. Cheryl DonnellyChIeF exeCuTIVe oFFICeR

CONTENTS3 Letter from the president4 Membership and marketing5 Communications and Website6 update on BSI Committees and

ISo Standards8 BCLA Fellowship9 Academic Committee10 Contact Lens & Anterior eye10 Clifford hall Library11 education and events

Committee12 pioneers Conference13 Clinical Conference and

exhibition15 Global Contact Lens Forum16 BCLA Council and Committees17 Financial Report19 Summarised accounts20 AGM minutes22 BCLA sponsors

The BCLA AnnuAL RepoRT 2013-2014 3

Letter from the President● As I enter the final months of my presidency and the 38th BCLA ClinicalConference and exhibition approaches, I would like to reflect on the ever-changing face of the BCLA.

As most of you are now aware, Vivien Freeman, our long serving Secretary General, retired from the Association at the end of 2013 – and I would like to once again thank Vivien for her tireless commitment to the BCLA over the many years that she served in office.

As one door closes another opens, and on behalf of all BCLA members I would like to extend a very, very warm welcome to Cheryl Donnelly, our new Ceo who officially took up her post in January 2014. Cheryl has taken over at a time when the BCLA is undergoing significant change and will now be at the helm of the organisation, as we continue to prepare for the many challenges that the future holds.

Cheryl’s vast experience and background in the commercial world of contact lenses and the anterior eye will add a fresh and dynamic feel to the management of the Association, and I wish her much success in her new role.

Looking forwards to the Clinical Conference in June, a further significant change has taken place and I would again, on behalf of all members, like to welcome nick Rumney as our new Conference programme Coordinator. nick’s depth of understanding of the contact lens world has already ignited a number of new and exciting changes to the conference format, as well as the launch of the Global Contact Lens Forum in partnership with Vision expo International, and I know we can all look forward to yet another successful Clinical Conference in 2014.

The BCLA would not be what it is today without the ongoing and generous support of all of our partners. I would like to pay a special tribute to our partners and exhibitors – as without their continued commitment, the BCLA would simply not be able to host the largest scientific contact lens meeting in the world today.

As with all organisations, there is a team of people working hard behind the scenes ensuring the BCLA continues to move forwards and progress. So to the staff in the office, our consultants, the Council, executive Committee and all who have contributed over the past year – a very big thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to me and to the Association.

As I hand over the presidency of the Association to Susan Bowers, I would also like to thank my many friends in the industry, my company for its support and last but not least, my family. The honour of becoming BCLA president has without doubt been the pinnacle of my career so far.

AnDy yorkeBCLA pReSIDenT


Membership and marketing● 2013-14 was an extremely busy year for the BCLA in terms of membership and marketing activities.

Towards the end of 2013, we launched a brand new website, which not only allows us to communicate directly with members and web visitors – but enables members to communicate with us and like-minded colleagues through conversations, questions and groups. We have received positive feedback regarding the new look, ease of navigation and layout of the resource section, which continues to expand with new videos and clinical photographs.

our aim is to ensure that we keep the website updated regularly with relevant information for our members, delegates and the public. one of the most popular new features is the blog section – which features the latest BCLA news plus relevant links to stories and events from around the globe.

Exciting digital developments ● our digital strategy continues to develop and during the 2013 Clinical Conference and exhibition in Manchester in June, we integrated our social media strategy with an awareness campaign. The key objective of the campaign was to increase our following on our first two social media channels – Facebook and Twitter – and to drive delegates around the exhibition hall to increase engagement with exhibitors and sponsors.

Since then we are pleased to report that our Twitter following has increased to just over 1,300 followers, and we now have more than 700 ‘likes’ on the BCLA Facebook page. In 2014-15, we will be developing the BCLA Linked In page and YouTube channel to continue to develop in all the possible ways our wide-ranging, and increasingly younger, audiences expect us to.

Finally, one of the most exciting and innovative developments this year has been the launch of the BCLA mobile app. Although designed as a year-round app, we have initially focused the launch of the app around the 38th BCLA Clinical Conference and exhibition. The aim of the app is to make life easier for our delegates, by allowing them to access information in the palm of their hands ‘on the go’. This includes the programme, social events, accommodation, speakers, detailed exhibitor listings, including products, and the opportunity to connect with each other before, during and after the event.

Membership● BCLA membership has seen organic growth over the past 20 years, however, numbers are now slightly falling due to a number of our long-standing members reaching retirement age and, hence, taking a step back from the Association. We have also seen a reduction in the number of non-paying student members – from 597 in 2012 compared with 321 in 2013. At 31 December 2013, we had a total of 2,199 members covering all categories – compared to 2,479 at 31 December 2012.

We have a range of membership options to suit all individuals depending on what stage they are at in their career. In 2013, we launched specific membership rates for newly qualified students; the aim now is to continue to grow the membership amongst students and younger practitioners and encourage them to become part of the BCLA community.

During 2014-15, we will continue to improve and develop the exciting new tools we launched in 2013-14 and, as always, keep our members’ needs at the forefront of all that we do. We understand that our members’ needs and requirements are ever-changing – and we will endeavour to meet them whilst growing and enhancing BCLA membership for all.

JAshAn BAhiAMARKeTInG MAnAGeR

non paying students 321student 91

Technical 87

optometists 1380Clo 289Medical 31

BCLA membership figures at 31 December 2013


Communications and website● 2013-14 was an exceptionally eventful year for the BCLA; communications activities reached an all-time peak during the first quarter and our pR output increased by more than a third over the entire year.

The launch of the BCLA website at the end of 2013 provided a new and improved way to reach members, supported by targeted e-communications via a new BCLA-branded e-newsletter. The new BCLA Blog is proving a useful tool to keep members regularly updated on BCLA news and events, as well as other stories affecting the profession via a weekly ‘In the news’ blog.

From 1 April to 30 June 2013, we issued 14 press releases – the highest number during any yearly quarter:● BClA peer review topics announced● First Council student rep appointed● BClA updates members on fluorescein● Joint statement on ophthlamic diagnostic strips ● BClA appoints Conference Programme Coordinator● 2013 BClA exhibition will be the biggest ever ● Major consumer research to be shared at BClA Business

Day● BClA gets buzzing with social media● BClA publishes 2012-13 Annual report● BClA ‘goes green’ for 2013 and beyond● BClA secretary General to retire ● BClA launches new brand identity at 37th Clinical

Conference● BClA welcomes new President and 2013-14 Council● Global contact lens community gathers in Manchester

Communications during this quarter concentrated on the 2013 Clinical Conference and exhibition, with coverage in all of the uK optical journals and overseas media too. For the first time, daily e-newsletters were sent to delegates during the conference with photos of top line events to lend a ‘live’ feeling to communications. Social media was used to maximise connectivity with delegates, as well as those not attending, to give the event more of a ‘buzz’. The aim of this approach was to appeal to younger members of the contact lens community.

Fluorescein and website launch● The 2012-13 Annual Report was published online in May 2013, and members alerted to this via e-update. The BCLA continued to support external organisations’ communications regarding the cessation of Flourets production by Bausch + Lomb and the subsequent ‘fluorescein issue’, both directly with news Alerts and via the website. A preview of the new website was shown at the Clinical Conference, which was also uploaded to the BCLA YouTube channel.

The BCLA’s new logo and brand identity was also publicised during the Clinical Conference and is now being used in all marketing and communications. A number of articles were commissioned for the new BCLA website, including six business blogs written by business consultant, Sarah Matthews.

From 1 July to 30 September 2013, we issued nine press releases: ● ‘no water’ warning for contact lens patients ● ClAe impact Factor on the rise● BClA seeks new Ceo● Call for 2014 workshops and spotlights● BClA President to explore technology and contact lenses● Caring for your contact lenses on holiday● Free Contact lens specialists society places for BClA

student and pre-reg members● Apply and nominate for BClA research awards● BClA launches new industry Award

A public facing message was issued and uploaded to the BCLA Blog during this quarter, ‘Caring for lenses on holiday’, in response to a nationally publicised call by a Southampton consultant ophthalmologist for people to take a break from contact lens wear whilst on holiday. positive messages were reinforced, along with health and safe contact lens wear guidance. The July issue of Contact was mailed out to members, and the announcement of the BCLA’s search for a new Ceo garnered much press attention.

We officially launched the new BCLA website during the


Communications and websitethird quarter and took pains to target members with a series of tutorials on how to use the new tools and functions.

press releases issued from 1 october to 31 December 2013, were: ● BClA to celebrate Best of British at 10th Pioneers Conference● BClA launches new interactive website ● BClA calls for 2014 papers and posters● BClA appoints new Ceo● BClA announces 2014 Clinical Conference theme● Celebrations and reflections at 10th Pioneers Conference● register now for January scientific evening meeting

We also uploaded several other blogs during this quarter, including public-facing messages about caring for cosmetic contact lenses to coincide with halloween, and a ‘Festive tips for healthy contact lens wear’ in December. BCLA Student representative, Shivani Madhavji, wrote about her experiences in taking part in the Fight for Sight Carrots nightwalk. The october issue of Contact was sent to members. The appointment of Cheryl Donnelly as BCLA Ceo in november 2013 was widely publicised, and both Optician and Optometry Today requested and subsequently published interviews with Cheryl.

During the final quarter, we mailed out the January issue of Contact, and issued eight press releases:● BClA Pre-reg rGP workshop inspires and educates● BClA conference registration now open● BClA announces spring meetings programme● Programme revealed for first-ever Global Contact lens

Forum● BClA mobile app goes live● BClA 2014 photographic competition now open● BClA offers new two-day conference package● BClA Fellowship deadline extended

The following clinical and business articles and reports were published online, available to download in pDF format, during 2013-14:● ‘ocular surface disease and therapeutics by Andrena

Mcelvanney’: scientific evening meeting report by nicky Collinson

● ‘Updates in refractive surgery’ by Allon Barsam● ‘Contact lenses and the law: what you need to know’ by

keith Cavaye● ‘The evolution of soft contact lens materials’ by Dr

Caroline Burnett hodd● ‘An interview with Pioneers Conference organiser nigel

Burnett hodd’ by nicky Collinson

In total, we issued 38 press releases between 1 April 2013 and 31 March 2014, compared to 28 during the same period last year – an increase of 36 per cent. All press releases and blogs are archived on the BCLA website and readily accessible along with relevant images; links to them are also posted on the BCLA Facebook page and, in turn, Twitter.

We expect 2014-15 to be similarly busy for BCLA news, and hope that more members will be encouraged to use the website to communicate with each other and with the Association – as well as to keep up with the BCLA on Facebook and Twitter.

niCky CollinsonCoMMunICATIonS ConSuLTAnT & WeB eDIToR


Update on BSI Committees and ISO ● The ISo TC 172/SC 7/WG 9 Committee met once during 2013; this meeting was held at DIn headquarters in Berlin from 14 to 18 March. Several standards that are being worked on were discussed, and these are summarised below.

The project group considering silicone hydrogels classification considered comments received from international standards bodies, and also derived a revised definition for ‘ionic’. They concluded that the modified classification for silicone hydrogels and revised definition should be submitted to the ISo 18369 project group for the revision of ISo 18369-1. The project group will next meet to examine any new data for future expansion of classification.

The project group on ISo 18369-1/2/3/4 considered a large number of revisions to the 18369 standards and made many changes. The amended documents will be circulated to the project group members for a final check then it was proposed that they be circulated for voting. The power ring test has, unfortunately, been delayed at the first test centre; it will be moved on and returned later. The working group confirmed that these documents should be circulated as committee drafts (CDs) under the new ISo np procedure for a revised standard.

The project group on microbiological testing focused on three main areas: ● The ISo 14730 preservative efficacy standard – Five Year Review. Voting finished on 18 June. The document was confirmed with comments. The project group considered the comments raised and recommend ‘confirm’ with minor editorial amendments. The working group agreed to confirm to DIn Secretariat: Minor revision to Final Draft International Standard (FDIS). ● A CD 18259 development of a test method to assess lens care products with contact lenses in a lens case, challenged with bacterial and fungal organisms. Voting finished on 30 June and this was approved as Draft International Standard (DIS). The project group proposed two minor editorial changes for normative reference and change of organism names. The working group confirmed this as DIS. ● A nWIp 19045. Development of a test method to assess the efficacy of care systems vs. Acanthamoeba trophozooites. Voting finished on 30 June and this was approved. The project group discussed the comments raised. It was proposed to change the title of the standard to: ‘Method for evaluating Acanthamoeba encystment by contact lens care products’,

along with editorial changes to remove three of the four organisms as not validated in ring test and circulate as CD. The working group confirmed the issue of a CD.

The project Group on ISo 18189 cytotoxicity is working on developing a stand-alone test method based upon ISo10993-5. The ring test that had previously been agreed had been completed since the last meeting but, unfortunately, the project leader was unable to attend the Berlin meeting or provide information on ring test owing to uS government problems.

however, the project group met under acting leader Dr Matthews to discuss the project with other members.

It appears the test method is good but sample preparation is incorrect. Further work to confirm this will be carried out. The convenor, therefore, requested a one-year extension for the project timetable. During the project group meeting, French experts provided further information on French norm.

Regarding the revision of DIS 13212 Care product Shelf-Life, voting finished on 25 September 2013. Voting was 14 votes in favour, with no negative votes or comments. Accordingly, the document should be elevated to FDIS. The project group had considered one late set of comments received from France regarding

the need to use room temperature storage, but no change was agreed. The working group confirmed document to be circulated as FDIS.

With regards to the review of DIS 11978 Information, voting finished on 11 September 2013. Voting was 16 votes in favour and no negative votes. The project group met to discuss the comments raised and made some editorial changes. The project group and working group confirmed the document be circulated as FDIS.

on contact lens and lens care product labelling symbols, modified symbols from the uK were discussed by the working group. The symbols for ‘Do not use tap water’, ‘Do not transfer to another container’ and ‘Do not put in eye’, were considered acceptable; the others require further work. The working group decided that further work should be undertaken in conjunction with the committee for ISo 15223-1.

The foregoing is a brief summary of progress made with some of the international standards over the last 12 months.

howArD GriFFiThsBCLA RepReSenTATIVe on BSI CoMMITTeeS


BCLA Fellowship

● The number of BCLA Fellows, who have demonstrated their esteem in the field of contact lenses and/or anterior eye, is continuing to grow steadily after the introduction of the BCLA Fellowship scheme in 2006. A total of 178 Fellows representing 18 countries are now endowed and able to use the post-nominal letters, FBCLA.

Further applications have been considered (see the criteria for points at www.bcla.org.uk/resources/member-benefits/bcla-fellowship) and viva voce assessments will take place at the 2014 Clinical Conference in Birmingham in June. All successful candidates will be invited to a special BCLA Fellows reception on Saturday 7 June at Ricoh Arena prior to the Gala Dinner, where they will be presented with their certificates and BCLA Fellowship pins.

ProFessor JAMes wolFFsohnFeLLoWShIp ConSuLTAnT

BCLA Fellows 2013Dr Abahussin Mohammad Mr ka yin Chan Miss Chi Foon Jessie Charm Miss essa MaikaDr Garofalo reneeDr Mark hindsMr Gordon JonesDr Michaud langisMiss Tsui Tsui leeMiss katie louise McGuinnessMrs Marissa MegaloconomosMr Andrew PlowrightMrs Anita robertsonMr Boris severinskyMr nilesh ThiteDr robert kocemboDr Catharine ChisholmDr roya BorazjaniMr Michael readMr Darren CampbellDr Gary Osborne


Academic Committee● The Academic Committee reviews all the scientific abstracts submitted to the BCLA each year, to be considered as posters or presentations at the annual Clinical Conference. It also proposes the winners of the research awards to the BCLA Council. professor James Wolffsohn took over the Chair this year from professor Roger Buckley, who has kindly agreed to continue to be a member of the committee.

ProFessor JAMes wolFFsohnChAIRMAn, ACADeMIC CoMMITTee

The BCLA Awards for 2013-14 were as follows:

MedalThis award recognises outstanding achievements in the field of contact lenses or the anterior eye.

Judith Morris (Uk) ‘Two steps forward, one step back’

Irving Fatt Memorial LectureThis award recognises a uK-based researcher who has recently been awarded a higher degree for research in the field of contact lenses or the anterior eye.

Dr Mitra Tavakoli (Uk) ‘Corneal confocal microscopy: beyond corneal defects. Translational studies in diabetes and neurology’

Dallos AwardThis award is given to fund a research project, which is likely to further the scientific community’s understanding of a topic related to contact lenses or the anterior eye.

Dr Gurpal singh Toor (Uk) ‘Developing methods to track the migration of transplanted corneal limbal stem cells’.

Da Vinci AwardThis award recognises an outstanding researcher who has shown exceptional promise, and who is not an established contact lens researcher.

ya kin Chan (hong kong) ‘Microbial adherence to cosmetic contact lenses’

ABDO Examination prizeThis award is given to the student gaining the highest mark in the Aftercare Section of the Contact Lens Certificate Diploma.

Jennifer kelly

Pioneers LectureThis award is given to a person who has contributed significantly to the advancement of knowledge in the field of contact lenses or anterior eye.

Professor James wolffsohn ‘evidence-basis for patient selection: how to predict success’

Summer Research ScholarshipsThese scholarships are awarded annually to fund an eight-week undergraduate research project.

luke Allen from Cardiff university for his project, ‘examining the effect of contact lens wear on lid margin sensitivity and the correlation with patient symptoms and ocular signs’


Contact Lens & Anterior Eye

● In 2013 the goal was to maintain the impact factor that CLAE achieved in 2012. CLAE was able to exceed on that target and actually improve its impact factor to 1.500, which places the journal 29th out of the 58 ophthalmology and related journals.

The goal for 2014 is to take it into the upper half and, hopefully, eventually into the upper quartile. Considering this is a sub-specialty journal with a small niche market, this shows remarkable esteem for CLAE, which is ahead of all other contact lens journals and even some broader optometry journals.

Following the awarding of an impact factor in 2012, there was a noted increase in submissions. Last year, it was estimated that there would be around 200 submissions to the journal, in fact, the prediction was very close to the actual number of 198 (including editorials and letters).

In the first three months of 2014, CLAE has had 68 papers – so it would appear that CLAE will exceed the 2013 figures. This means extra work for the editor, editorial panel, reviewers and publishers and that the authors are sometimes waiting a little longer for the decisions on their paper. however, the upside is that we can ensure that only the very best papers will be accepted into CLAE and it will continue to be the best peer reviewed journal in the field.

The BCLA has agreed to offer an additional editor to support

the increased workload. Currently there are two regional editors (professor pauline Cho in Asia pacific and Dr Robin Chalmers in the Americas) plus a reviews editor (professor eric papas). The plan for the future would be to have subject specific editors, and work is ongoing to put this proposal into action.

Due to the increase in papers submitted, there has been an increase in the rejection rate but also a delay in getting papers reviewed and published. elsevier has agreed with the BCLA to increase the pages per issue so we can clear the backlog – and so BCLA members can expect to see some bumper editions of CLAE soon.

The chart shows the increase in submissions (2014 figures are an estimate based on submissions so far this year).

Finally, as ever, on behalf of CLAE I would like to thank the BCLA Council for its continued support of their journal and elsevier for its continuing guidance and the excellent editorial board of CLAe: professor eric papas, Dr Christopher Snyder, professor pauline Cho, professor Jan pG Bergmanson, professor Roger J. Buckley, professor patrick Caroline, Dr Robin Chalmers, professor Michael Doughty, professor nathan efron, Dr Michel Guillon, professor nizar K. hirji, professor Meng C. Lin, Dr Florence Malet, professor philip B. Morgan, professor Deborah Sweeney, professor Brian J. Tighe, Dr eef van Der Worp, professor Barry Weissman, Dr Mark Willcox, professor James S. Wolffsohn, Dr Craig Woods.

And finally, a big thank you to the authors and reviewers who work tirelessly putting manuscripts together for publication in CLAE

Dr shehzAD A. nArooeDIToR-In-ChIeF

BCLA Keith Clifford Hall Collection● The BCLA continues to support the BCLA Keith Clifford hall Collection at the College of optometrists’ Library in London.

In 2013-14, the fourth edition of ‘Clinical manual of contact lenses’ by Bennett e.S. and henry V.A. was added to the collection.

Keith Clifford hall (1910-1964) was an optometric pioneer of contact lens practice whose work is commemorated by a collection of literature held for reference in the College library. The collection is supported by the BCLA and books received for review in Contact Lens & Anterior Eye are added to the collection.

BCLA members who are not members of the College can access the library by contacting the College Librarian on 0207 766 4352 or emailing [email protected]

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Education and Events Committee● I am pleased to report that we had a very busy and successful year during 2013-14, with more peer discussion, our first-ever business workshop and a new RGp day for pre-registration students.

In his eagerly anticipated presidential Address entitled, ‘Rise of the machines’, held in London in September 2013, Andy Yorke explored the influence of ophthalmic machines on contact lens practice – past, present and future. “Am I a man or machine?” he asked members, before charting the evolution of ophthalmic instrumentation and machinery, exploring how innovations past, present and future have (and continue to) impact on everyday contact lens practice.

In the autumn of 2013, we ran a series of peer discussion groups – in Coventry with myself, CooperVision in hampshire with Chris Kerr, and at the practice of Wilson, Wilson & hancock in Sussex with Keith Cavaye and Angela Mcnamee.

I gave a BCLA Faculty presentation at high Wycombe hospital, Buckinghamshire, in november 2013 on independent prescribing. In December 2013, BCLA Faculty Speaker, Caroline Christie, and BCLA Council member (optometric Representative) Sheetal patel ran a dry eye CeT workshop at the practice of professor Bruce evans in essex, which included punctual plug fitting.

In January 2014, Andrena Mcelvanney, Consultant ophthalmic Surgeon at epsom & St helier university hospitals nhS Trust, presented: ‘ocular surface disease and therapeutics’ at our scientific evening meeting held at one Drummond Gate, London. Members heard about challenging cases of ocular surface disease, clinical signs and treatment options, with one therapeutics and one general CeT point offered to members and guests. During the evening BCLA Ceo, Cheryl Donnelly, informed members of the sad passing of former BCLA president, Keith edwards.

Also in January 2014, we ran a ‘pass your RGp assessment’ day for pre-registration optometrists and trainee contact lens opticians at Aston university, led by professor James Wolffsohn and myself. This was well attended and deemed a success by both students and sponsors and will be repeated next year.

A joint BCLA/Scottish Contact Lens Society Grand Rounds session was held in the Department of Vision Sciences at Glasgow Caledonian university (GCu) in February. The event was free to attend, open to all and approved for one CeT point (optometrist, CLo and therapeutics prescribers). Former GCu alumni and BCLA Faculty Speaker, Caroline Christie, co-presented with Dr Scott Mackie – covering topics such as the eye and presbyopia, highlights from London 2012, management of allergy and microbial keratitis.

BCLA Faculty Speaker, Ian Cameron, presented a lecture on behalf of the BCLA at 100% optical in London entitled: 'I've got the stigmata doctor! Communication and contact lenses'.

Peer discussion on the goIn March 2014, we ran peer discussion groups at the Alcon Academy in Surrey with BCLA Council member (optometric Representative) Jonathan Bench, and at the BCLA head office in London with BCLA Council members (Contact Lens optician representatives) Iain May and Keith Tempany. These sessions looked at generic contact lens case records taken from the College of optometrists, ABDo and LoCSu, and offered three CeT points for optometrists and contact lens opticians.

In the same month, I presented a lecture on children’s contact lenses to Warwickshire Aop, and lectured at South Staffordshire hospital in April 2014 on hay fever and contact lenses.

our first-ever business workshop led by Ross Grant, optometrist and founder of ToolBox Training and Consultancy, was held at the BCLA office in London in March. BCLA Faculty Speaker, Caroline Christie, spoke at the new Federation of Manufacturing opticians/optician trade show, optrafair London, held from 11-13 April at olympia national, London, on behalf of the Association. her presentation, ‘Anterior segment record keeping: how good are you?’, was CeT approved for optometrists and contact lens opticians.

As the BCLA education and events Committee Chair, I would like to thank all the members of the committee and Faculty for their help and support this year. I would also like to welcome professor Bruce evans and nick howard as the newest members of the BCLA Faculty of Speakers.

sUsAn BowersChAIR, eDuCATIon AnD eVenTS CoMMITTee


10th Pioneers Conference● At the ‘Best of British’ themed 10th pioneers Conference, held in London in november, members heard from some of the leading lights in British contact lens research, practice and academia – and reflected on the achievements of those no longer here.

opening this year’s conference, honorary pioneers Conference organiser nigel Burnett hodd took a moment to inform members of the recent passing of professor Geoff Woodward – who had proved such an inspiration to him and so many others – and dedicated the day to his memory.

proceedings began as nigel welcomed to the stage (to the tune of ‘Those were the days my friend…’) Judith Morris, Richard pearson, Tim Bowden, Andrew Gasson and Chris Kerr to take a walk down memory lane in ‘Do you remember when?’ The panelists reviewed some of the major innovations in lenses and instrumentation of the past 60 years – and pondered whether some of these needed reinventing in order for the profession to move forwards.

Looking at how to maintain and grow contact lens practice on the high Street, Dr Trusit Dave discussed the two primary various threats of the day: more surgical options for patients and greater competition. Strategies to achieve more new fits included: understanding patients better and targeting existing patients using digital tools like Google Adwords, social media and the practice website.

Looking to the futureGuest speaker, Douglas Anderson oBe, founder of optos, talked delegates through the development of the optos scanning laser ophthalmoscope and how he obtained funding to develop it and bring it to market. unique amongst instruments in obtaining an instantaneous multi-layer image of 80 per cent of the retinal area, the new desktop Daytona has transformed the examination quality of those using it, and has saved both lives and sight. More than 300 million eyes had now been tested with the optos, which was now in 6,000 sites.

next to speak was Dr Caroline Burnett hodd, who gave a whistlestop tour of contact lens designs past and present beginning with the birth of glass sclerals in 1888. Referencing the 50th anniversary of the assassination of JFK, in his lecture on the interaction of tear components and contact lenses, professor Brian Tighe asked delegates to consider “not what the tear film can do to the lens, but what the lens can do to the tear film”.

“If we know what’s being prescribed today, can we know what’s going to be sold tomorrow?” asked professor phil Morgan, as he began an examination of where contact lenses were going on the high Street. Comfort was still a big issue, he said, and so would lead developments along with the quest to control myopia.

In his presentation on uK contact lens manufacturing, William Thomas explained that this had transformed itself over the last 40 years from a cottage industry involving many small companies into high tech production dominated by large multinational companies.

empowering frontline staff to talk to patients was the key to a smooth running, successful practice, declared Sarah Morgan in her talk on teaching staff to manage contact lens patients. She explained that a key take-home stat from the 2013 BCLA Clinical Conference was that 20 per cent of patients drop out after one month, and 33 per cent drop our after three months. “We can do better with what we have at our fingertips,” Sarah declared.

In his annual pioneers update, Tim Bowden paid tribute to the late professor Geoff Woodward, informing members of the impact he had made on the profession and industry. Also remembered this year were new York born Joseph Smith, who held numerous uS and foreign patents on the finishing processes of RGp lenses, and fellow new Yorker Sheldon Wechsler, who directed the development of the Acuvue disposable contact lens.

presenting the 10th BCLA pioneers Lecture, professor James Wolffsohn considered how to predict patient success by looking at the patient in the chair. In his highly iconoclastic, but evidence-based presentation, he challenged members to achieve the best fit the first time – identifying recent research that addressed this issue and highlighting areas where more practice based research could enhance future clinical practice.

During the evening BCLA Secretary General, Vivien Freeman, presented a special award to nigel Burnett hodd for his 10 years of dedicated service in organising the pioneers Conference and Lecture.

The sponsors of the 10th BCLA pioneers Conference were: Alcon, Bausch + Lomb, CooperVision, David Thomas Contact Lenses, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, optos, Sauflon, Topcon and ultraVision.

View the 10th pioneers Conference presentations in the Virtual Lecture Library at www.bcla.org.ukRepoRT BY nICKY CoLLInSon


Clinical Conference and Exhibition

● In 2013, the BCLA returned to Manchester Central for its annual Clinical Conference and exhibition, held from Thursday 6 to Sunday 9 June. The increasingly globally renowned event coincided with some very warm and sunny Lancashire weather, which added to the good mood overall.

We welcomed a total of 1,074 registered delegates of which 415 were visiting the conference for the first time. There were 471 uK delegate registrations, of which 278 were uK practitioners – representing an increase of around 10 per cent from 2012. of the overseas delegates, the highest country representation was again from the uSA, followed by Sweden and Germany. however, the international appeal of the conference reached out to 50 different countries – more than ever before. The largest section represented at the conference overall was optometric, and some 75 per cent of all delegates chose to attend the full four days of the conference.

The conference was opened by 2013-14 president, Dr Catharine Chisholm, on Thursday 6 June and the programme

on day one included sessions on myopia, with the Irving Fatt Memorial Lecture presented by Dr Mitra Tavakoli on ‘Corneal confocal microscopy: beyond corneal defects. Translational studies in diabetes and neurology’. The Therapeutics Academy took place on the opening day along with various scientific presentations, one of which was the 2013 Da Vinci Award presentation by Ka Yin Chan on, ‘Microbial adherence to cosmetic contact lenses’. Delegates then had their first opportunity to mix and mingle at the BCLA Welcome Reception on the Thursday evening.

Day two of the conference opened with a session on dry eye and 2013 BCLA Medallist, Judith Morris, presented her lecture: ‘Two steps forward, one step back’, which was an enjoyable journey through her experiences since first venturing into contact lenses. Dr Florence Malet from the Bordeaux ophthalmology university hospital presented her keynote address on ‘The management of keratoconus’ and there were further scientific presentations on ‘Behaviour’.


A material worldDay three kicked off with keynote speaker, professor Brian Tighe, presenting on ‘Contact lens materials’ and featured a full day of ‘practical contact lenses’ presentations and workshops. professor eric papas delivered the final keynote address of the conference on, ‘Through my aching eyes – reflections on the perennial problem of contact lens discomfort’, and the last scientific session on ‘Lenses and design’ concluded the day.

Displayed around the exhibition hall were 90 entries in the 2013 poster competition, with prizes donated by elsevier. The overall winners were Maria navascues-Cornago, Carole Maldonado-Codina and philip Morgan for ‘Sensitivity of the marginal and tarsal conjunctiva in non-contact lens wearers’. The winner of the 2013 photographic competition was Fabrizio Zeri, for his entry ‘hyperferritinemia cataract’, with a special mention for Michelle Snowball’s ‘Meibomian gland dropout’. Fabrizio was presented with a digital camera by Dr Catharine Chisholm, courtesy of competition sponsor nikon optical.

The annual Gala Dinner took place at Manchester Central on the Saturday evening with a Chinese theme – ‘Year of the Contact Lens’. Guests once again excelled themselves with their costumes and dancing. outgoing president Dr Catharine Chisholm’s final duties before handing over the presidential medal to Andy Yorke were to present the 2013 BCLA Fellowship Awards as well as an honorary Life Membership to Chris Kerr as he retired from his role as Conference Scientific programme Consultant. The final presentation of the evening was to BCLA Secretary General, Vivien Freeman, who was attending her last conference before retiring at the end of 2013.

The final day of the conference was dominated by two major sessions – ‘International scene’, which incorporated a quick fire world tour on ‘Why things are different in…’ various contact lens leading countries; and the newly introduced Business Session. In ‘understanding the business of contact lenses’, peter Ivins and guest speakers steered delegates through patient retention, maximising opportunities and defining success – all very important subjects to independent contact lens practitioners. 2013 also saw a very successful exhibition where in addition

Clinical Conference and Exhibition (continued)


Global Contact Lens Forum● In october 2013, the BCLA and International Vision expo & Conference announced a multi-year, content exchange agreement to create a two-day ‘Global Contact Lens Forum’.

The new partnership followed months of conversations aimed at expanding and improving continuing education offerings at our respective conferences. The agreement allows International Vision expo to enhance its portfolio and further solidify its position as a world-class content provider. Members of its Conference Advisory Board will have the opportunity to jointly develop innovative, scientific-based courses alongside the BCLA.

The inaugural forum was staged at International Vision expo east in new York, from 26 to 27 March 2014, providing a forum for scientific content and business solutions for all eyecare providers. exploring all aspects of contact lens practice business, the Cope-approved programme featured internationally-renowned speakers professor Lyndon Jones (Canada), who delivered a keynote address on the future of contact lenses, nick Rumney (BCLA/uK), Joe Barr (uSA), Kirk Smick (uSA), Jack Schaeffer (uSA) and Shelly Bansal (BCLA/uK). The event attracted 270 delegate registrations with more than 150 delegates in attendance at any one time.

This new partnership between Vision expo and the BCLA has afforded both organisations new opportunities to jointly develop exciting, innovative educational content to position eyecare professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in today’s eye healthcare environment. The second GCLF will be held on Friday 6 June at the ICC Birmingham, uK, on the opening day of the 38th BCLA Clinical Conference and exhibition, and we will be taking the project forward into 2014-15.

niCk rUMneyConFeRenCe pRoGRAMMe CooRDInAToR

to the 1,000 plus delegates, we also welcomed 168 exhibition visitors, a vast increase on previous years. There were 55 exhibiting companies, which took advantage of the free exhibitors’ pavilion slots to present their new products and services. For the first time, we took the BCLA into the brave new world of social media competitions with delegates getting involved with our ‘Mugshot’ and ‘eye spy’ competitions. Andreas Muhs from Germany won an ipad Mini after being picked at random from all those who Tweeted and Facebooked photos of themselves holding BCLA bear, Leo, during the three-day exhibition.

Apart from being great fun, BCLA 2013 elicited a sense of community with delegates and visitors interacting with exhibitors more than ever before. We also introduced a number of initiatives to make the Clinical Conference a more sustainable event. not only is Manchester Central one of the greenest venues in the uK, but we gave out bags, pens and lanyards all made from recycled materials and all of our printing was done on recycled paper. We plan to take our sustainability and digital media strategies even further during 2014-15.

* Members can view Judith Morris’s Medal Address, and other conference lectures, in the BCLA’s online Virtual Lecture Library. View photos from the conference on the BCLA’s Facebook page.

sArAh GreenwooDBCLA eVenTS MAnAGeR


BCLA Council 2013-14President

Andy yorke President elect

susan Bowersimmediate Past President

Dr Catharine Chisholm Past President

shelly Bansal Contact lens optician representative

keith Tempanyoptometric representative

Jonathon BenchMedical representative

Dr Ursula Vogt Medical representative

siobhan wren Contact lens optician representative

iain Mayoptometric representative

Brian Tompkins optometric representative

sheetal PatelTechnical representative and honorary Treasurer

Maxine GreenTechnical representative

karl Aberdeenlay Member

katherine reed student representative

shivani Madhavji

BCLA CONSULTANTSDr shehzad naroo

Journal editor-in-Chiefnick rumney

Conference Programme Consultantnicky Collinson

Communications Consultant & web editor

Professor James wolffsohn Fellowship Consultant

Marc Bennett Financial Consultant

Chris kerrClinical Conference Consultant

BCLA STAFFCheryl Donnelly

Chief executive officerJashan Bahia

Marketing Managersarah Greenwood

events ManagerCilia launay

Conference & events AssistantAmir khan

Database and Administration Manager

BCLA OFFICECome and visit the BCLA offices if you are in the area. We are on the third floor of 7/8 Market place, London W1W 8AG, and the nearest underground station is oxford Circus.

BCLA COMMITTEESExECuTIVE COMMITTEEAndy yorke (Chair)susan BowersDr Catharine Chisholm shelly Bansalkeith TempanyMaxine Greensiobhan wrenCheryl Donnelly

EVEnTS & EDuCATIOn COMMITTEEsusan Bowers (Chair)Maxine GreenJonathon Benchiain Maysheetal PatelAlison Aldersonkarl Aberdeenkeith TempanyCaroline Christie (BUCCle representative)sarah GreenwoodJashan BahiaCheryl Donnelly

ACADEMIC COMMITTEEProfessor James wolffsohn (Chair)Dr Catharine Chisholm Professor roger BuckleyDr shehzad narooDr Ursula Vogtnick rumney (observer)Amir khan and sarah Greenwood (as appropriate)

COnFEREnCE COMMITTEEDr Catharine Chisholmnick rumneyChristine PurslowPhilip MorganBrian TompkinsDr shehzad narooAndy yorkeDr Graeme youngsarah GreenwoodCheryl Donnelly


Financial report● As the optical profession starts the gradual climb out of one the longest and deepest recessions on record, market and clinical issues continue to challenge our individual members and corporate supporters.

The BCLA has worked hard to safeguard resources by adopting a prudent approach to investment policy and maintaining tight financial control over expenditure. At the same time, investment has been made in our online offering to bring increasing benefits to our members and it is hoped that the increase in online marketing will see further growth in the Clinical Conference for 2014 and 2015.

Financial reviewTotal income from providing benefits to our members rose by 9.2 per cent to £1,193,155 (2012 = £1,092,905) whilst investment income fell to £4,486 from £12,020 – reflecting a prudent investment policy and a concentration of efforts on providing more varied and a higher number of member events. For the second year running, total charitable expenditure was again covered by income (103.4 per cent self-financed

compared with 101 per cent self financed in 2012). Accordingly, the net total surplus for the year was £28,871

compared with a small surplus of £2,530 in 2012. This surplus increased the overall fund balance to £503,279 in 2013 – from £474,408 in the previous year. Given the many threats to income generation during the challenging economic conditions existing in 2013, I believe the safeguarding of the BCLA’s resources – whilst maintaining the high level of member benefits – is a very creditable achievement and I would like to extend my thanks to the now retired Secretary General, BCLA office staff and the entire Council for all their valued assistance.

Clinical ConferenceLast year’s Clinical Conference in Manchester attracted more than 1,200 delegates (of which over 89 per cent were paying delegates) from 50 different countries. The conference continues to be the mainstay of the Association’s income and with the tireless efforts of the Council and office staff, it is hoped that the conference will maintain its successful run into 2014. We also remain grateful to all of our sponsors, whose steadfast support


Financial report (continued)

continues to allow the BCLA to host one of the world’s leading contact lens meetings.

Member benefitsThe main asset of any Association is its membership and in the year to December 2013, membership numbers stood at 2,199. This represents a slight decrease on the figure of 2,479 members as at 31 December 2012 – the reasons for which are touched upon in the membership and marketing report (page 4).

one of the main objectives of the Council during the past year has been to continue its focus on increasing membership numbers and benefits. Investment in membership marketing is of paramount importance in achieving growth goals as it is vital not only to increase the available benefits – but to communicate this message to our members.

There has certainly been a positive impact from the investment in the BCLA website, launched in Q4 of 2013. It is hoped the website becomes the chief business tool and engine for online course and conference bookings, as well as marketing to members on increasing benefits and clinical news.

The BCLA pioneers Conference, a free event open only to BCLA members which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2013, continues to go from strength to strength and more than 200 members attended in 2013. The Council will continue to support and encourage the growth of this annual BCLA event and are looking at ways to increase its scope and popularity for 2014-15.

Financial goals 2014-15The current financial position of the BCLA will again require diligent management over the coming year, and the Council will maintain its prudent investment policy to ensure ongoing financial stability. It is hoped that the coming year will see renewed growth in membership numbers and that the level of member benefits can again be increased from self-funding activities generated during the financial year.

Finally, the success of the BCLA comes primarily from member participation and the Council would like to thank everyone who has taken time out to support the Association over the last 12 months.

MArC BenneTT FCABCLA FInAnCIAL ConSuLTAnT

Report of the independent auditors to the Trustees of the British Contact Lens Association LimitedWe have examined the summarised accounts set out on page 19.

Respective Responsibilities of the Trustees and the AuditorsYou are responsible as Trustees for the preparation of the

summarised accounts. We have agreed to report to you our opinion on the summarised accounts’ consistency with the full accounts, on which we reported to you on 26 March 2014.

Basis of opinionWe have carried out the procedures we consider necessary to ascertain whether the summarised accounts are consistent with the full accounts from which they have been prepared.

OpinionIn our opinion, the summarised accounts are consistent with the full accounts for the year ended 31 December 2013.

h.W Fisher & CompanyRegistered AuditorAcre house11-15 William RoadLondon nW1 3eR

Trustees’ report and accountsThe summarised accounts on this page have been extracted from the audited accounts of the charity, which were approved by Trustees on 26 March 2014. These summarised accounts may not contain sufficient information to allow a full understanding of the financial affairs of the charity.

A copy of the full Annual Report and Accounts will be submitted to the Charity Commission. For further information the full Annual Report and Accounts, including the unqualified report of the Auditors, should be consulted.

A copy can be obtained from the Charity’s offices at:7/8 Market place London W1W 8AG

SIGneD on BehALF oF The BoARD oF TRuSTeeS26 MARCh 2014

Footnote: In answer to a query raised at the 2013 AGM, the amount of investment which the Association funded into market research, re-branding and website development in the year ended 31 December 2013 was as follows :Expensed through the profit & loss accounts: £17,850 Capitalised through the balance sheet: £31,425


Summarised accountsThe British Contact Lens Association Limited statement of financial activities including income and expenditure account for the year ended 31 December 2013 2013 2012 £ £InCOMIng RESOuRCES FROM gEnERATED FunDSInvestment income 4,486 12,020Conference, exhibition, journal and other income 1,193,155 1,092,905

Total incoming resources 1,197,641 1,104,925

RESOuRCES ExPEnDED Charitable activitiesConferences and exhibitions 842,207 767,493Member services including journal 266,726 270,378Seminars and courses 39,690 44,073

Total charitable expenditure 1,148,623 1,081,944

Governance costs 20,147 20,451

Total resources expended 1,168,770 1,102,395

net income for the year/net movement in funds 28,871 2,530

Fund balances at 1 January 2013 474,408 471,878

Fund balances at 31 December 2013 503,279 474,408

gROuP BALAnCE SHEET AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2013 2013 2012

£ £ £ £ Fixed assetsTangible assets 33,768 15,055 Current assetsDebtors 257,550 313,984Cash at bank and in hand 664,107 698,747 921,657 1,012,731

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year (452,146) (553,378) net current assets 469,511 459,353 Total assets less current liabilities 503,279 474,408 Income funds

unrestricted funds 503,279 474,408 503,279 474,408

The statement of financial activities also complies with the requirements for an income and expediture account under the Companies Act 2006

The accounts were approved by the Board on 26 March 2014

AndyYorke Maxine GreenpReSIDenT TReASuReR


AGM minutes 2013Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on Friday 7 June, Manchester Central Convention Centre, Manchester, United kingdom.

There were approximately 40 members present.

1. Minutes of previous meeting

Following a proposal by Iain May, seconded by Shelly Bansal and carried unanimously, the president (Dr Catharine Chisholm) signed the Minutes of the Annual General Meeting held on 25 May 2012, at ICC, Birmingham, uK, as a true record.

2. Matters arising from the minutes

Dr Catharine Chisholm confirmed that following last year’s AGM, section meetings have been reinstated this year at the members’ request. Members had also requested a smaller meeting room for the AGM; it had not been possible to do this for this year but would be relocated in the future. Also a new membership category was introduced for newly qualified optometrists and contact lens opticians.

3. report of the Council

This had been included in the 2012-13 Annual Report.

The presidential Address, entitled ‘Life in the fast lane’, had been delivered to BCLA members at the Royal Society of Medicine, London, the Lancashire optical Society, hull LoC, York LoC, Sunderland and Durham LoC, South Staffordshire optical Society, northern Ireland optical Society and Bradford LoC.

2012-2013 has been another busy year. Council has met five times during the year, this included one strategy day meeting, and the executive Committee met nine times [the attendances at executive committee meetings are

shown in square brackets]. All Council members give voluntarily of their time and Dr Catharine Chisholm recorded the Association’s appreciation of the support given by all Council members and in particular their reliability, intelligence and good humour at all times. The names of the Council members and the number of meetings they attended are as follows:

S. Bansal (2)[6], S. Bowers (5), C. Chisholm (5) [9], M. Green (5), I. May (5), S. patel (3), K. Reed (3), K. Tempany (3) [6], B. Tompkins (3), u. Vogt (4) [4 joined during year], M. Wilkinson (1) (retired December 2012), S. Wren (5), A. Yorke (5) [9].

The president thanked Michael Wilkinson, Technical Representative, who retired in December 2012, for his services to the Association.

4. To consider and receive the accounts and balance sheet of the Association for the period 1 January to 31 December 2012

The honorary Treasurer’s Financial Report had been published in the Annual Report 2012-2013. Full copies of the accounts are available from the BCLA office. The accounts, which were approved by the BCLA Council on 17 April 2013, were adopted.

Keith Tempany reported that the audited accounts were approved on 10 May 2013. A summarised version of the accounts together with the Financial Report had been included in the Annual Report available to all members on the BCLA website. For the year ended 31 December 2012, the reserves of the BCLA increased to £474,408 following a small surplus for the year.

Full copies of the accounts are available from the BCLA office. There were no questions and on a show of hands the accounts were adopted.

5. To appoint auditors

It was proposed by nick Atkins, seconded by Robert Kocembo and carried unanimously, that the BCLA Council be authorised to appoint auditors of the Association and to authorise the Council to determine their remuneration.

6. To appoint new directors

It was unanimously agreed to approve the appointment of Karl Aberdeen as a director of the BCLA.

7. To report the composition of 2013 -2014 BClA Council

It was reported that the composition of the new BCLA Council would be:

Andy Yorke – president; Catharine Chisholm – Immediate past president; Shelly Bansal – past president; Susan Bowers – president elect; Karl Aberdeen – Technical Representative; Maxine Green – Technical Representative; Iain May – Contact Lens optician representative; Katharine Reed – Lay Member; Keith Tempany – Contact Lens optician Representative; Sheetal patel – optometric Representative; Brian Tompkins – optometric Representative; Dr ursula Vogt – Medical Representative; Siobhan Wren – Medical Representative. We shall shortly be sending out nomination forms for one more optometric representative on Council.

8. BClA awards

The 2014 BCLA Medal would be awarded to philip Morgan, uK. The 2014 Irving Fatt Memorial Lecture will be presented by Dr heiko pult, Germany. pauline Kang, Australia, is the recipient of the 2014 Dallos Award for his project entitled, ‘The influences of myopia-controlling multifocal soft contact lenses on binocular vision and accommodation in young adult myopes and the effect of


varying the magnitude of the addition’. The 2013 Da Vinci Award was awarded to Ya Kin Chan, hong Kong, for his project entitled, ‘Microbial adherence to cosmetic contact lenses’.

The BCLA prize for the student gaining his/her ABDo contact lens certificate diploma with the highest mark in the aftercare section (subject to a minimum of 65 per cent in this section) was awarded to emma White. The 2013 Summer Research Scholarship was awarded to Luke Allen from Cardiff university for his project entitled, ‘examining the effect of contact lens wear on lid margin sensitivity and the correlation with patient symptoms and ocular signs’.

9. Any other business

In April this year, Bausch + Lomb – the sole uK supplier of (p) marked fluorescein impregnated paper strips (trade name Fluorets) – announced that it was ceasing production worldwide and that current supplies would run out in early summer – expected to be the end of June 2013. This presented an immediate problem to optometrists and contact lens opticians who depend on the product as an aid to fitting contact lenses, without which problems relating to patient choice and

safety may occur. The only similarly licensed products,

fluorescein Minims, are not believed to be suitable for the fitting process as they dispense too much fluorescein into the eye. Minims are better used for diagnostic purposes such as contact tonometry. There is also a commercial issue to consider, as Minims cost the practitioner about four times as much as the discontinued Fluoret product.

In the uK and europe, various agencies and key optical bodies are debating matters of classification and supply. one distributor has been given temporary permission by the Medicines and healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MhRA) to market ophthalmic diagnostic strips under a Ce mark, which removes the problem for ophthalmologists, but we have not been able to determine how these can be used by optometrists and contact lens opticians as the MhRA has not been forthcoming with that information, despite requests from the General optical Council (GoC) for clarification. Consequently, the GoC is advising that Minims are the current legal product of use.

In the uK, impregnated strip products, such as Fluorets, are designated a medicinal product, meaning they fall under

a p license directive. Without license, we are unsure at this time as to whether the product that has been given a temporary license to import is actually lawful to use and, until we obtain such clarification from wither the GoC or the MhRA, the BCLA advice remains as we have published on our website: that Minims remain the only p-licensed fluorescein product available for use by optometrists and CLos in the process soft contact lens fitting.

Chris Kerr asked that when listing the attendance numbers at Council and executive committee meetings that the total number of each of these meetings held was also shown.

Shelly Bansal asked the meeting to recognise the hard work done by Vivien Freeman, Secretary General, who would be retiring in December. nick Atkins reiterated this.

nick Atkins fully supported the investment which the Association had made into its future – namely the website, branding and the market research. Marc Bennett, Financial Consultant, confirmed that a breakdown of how these monies had been spent would be shown in the next year’s balance sheet.

There being no further business, the president closed the meeting at 18.25 hours.


BCLA 2013 sponsorsWithout the generous support of its sponsors, the many unique and outstanding features of the British Contact Lens Association Clinical Conference and exhibition would not be possible.

Patron sponsors AlconCooperVisionJohnson & Johnson Vision Care

Platinum sponsorBausch + Lomb

Gold sponsorsDavid Thomas Contact Lenses/MeniconSauflonTopcon

Premium exhibitorultraVision

Poster Competition prizeselsevier Science

Photographic Competition Prizesnikon optical

www.bcla.org.ukBritish Contact Lens Association,7/8 Market place, London W1W 8AG.Tel +44 (0) 20 7580 6661Fax +44 (0) 20 7580 6669email [email protected]

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