IBMS Council meeting update
IBMS representation at ISO/TC 212
The IBMS representative plays a key role in shaping, negotiating and influencing international laboratory standards, ensuring UK practice, professional judgement and workforce perspectives are reflected rather than reacting to changes after publication
The UK delegation is highly respected internationally, with leadership transition from David Ricketts to Debra Padgett making continued visible engagement critical to maintaining influence and credibility
Council agreed to continue to support travel and subsistence to enable effective face-to-face participation in UK and international TC 212 meetings
Ongoing representation is considered strategically essential to protect UK laboratory interests, safeguard IBMS’s global standing, and influence forthcoming decisions including potential revision of ISO 15189
Education and Professional Standards Committee
Council noted that the overall impact of the revised HCPC standards of education and training is expected to be minimal for IBMS activity, with no major concerns raised.
IBMS Accreditation criteria will be updated to reflect the finalised HCPC standards for September 2026 entry.
Council also discussed changes affecting international applicants, with HCPC now requiring a mapping of standards of proficiency to address concerns raised by employers.
Council received an update on the placement survey work, noting that some placements go unfilled because students cannot take them up due to barriers.
The discussion highlighted geographical constraints, local recruitment preferences, and inconsistent financial support including limited access to bursaries and replacement-cost coverage.
Qualifications and performance
Council noted that the Certificate of Expert Practice (CEP) courses are now live on the IBMS VLE, with 263 candidates enrolled and positive early feedback from tutors on access and usability.
Education KPIs show increased volumes of assessment applications processed compared with 2024, with turnaround times remaining within targets overall.
Council also discussed reporting changes to distinguish internal performance from external constraints, such as assessor availability.
Membership and Marketing Committee
Council noted that the Membership and Marketing Committee has approved revised terms of reference, including updated terminology and committee size changes.
Council also received an update on the discipline policy review. Following a solicitor-led review, the policy has been streamlined with clearer scope and a strengthened appeals process.
The revised process also combines stages to reduce administrative burden.
Research and evidence programme
Council discussed the Strategic Research Group’s work on maternity pathways, narrowing the focus to antenatal screening.
Council agreed to approve funding to progress this work, reflecting the increased complexity compared with earlier projects.
Member services and systems
Council discussed the next phase of the customer relationship management (CRM) programme, with Phase 2 workshops scheduled throughout March.
Council elections and key dates
Council elections are open. Nominations close at 5:00pm on Thursday 12 March 2026, with voting open from 20 April to 28 May 2026.
Next scheduled Council meetings:
- 27 April 2026 (online)
- 12 June 2026 (in-person), 13 June 2026 (AGM)
- 18 September 2026 (online)
- 10 December 2026 (in-person)
