IBMS Council meeting update
Public affairs and policy influence
Council received an update on IBMS public affairs activity from PLMR our policy team, including work to raise the profile of biomedical science across parliaments, policy networks and the wider health system.
The 2026 programme will focus on positioning biomedical scientists as essential to NHS delivery, particularly in prevention, diagnostics, community-based care and workforce planning.
Council noted that the IBMS will continue to use evidence and policy engagement to influence national discussions, including work connected to NHS reform, cancer policy, life sciences and pandemic preparedness.
The IBMS will also strengthen engagement across the four nations, including work following elections in Scotland and Wales.
Regional Council updates
Council agreed to introduce regular updates from regional Council members from June.
The updates will help Council build a clearer picture of activity across branches and regions, share good practice, and improve understanding of member priorities across the UK.
Member services and systems
Council received an update on the CRM and website project, which has now been live for around 10 months.
The next phase will focus on improving member self-service, streamlining processes, strengthening automation and improving the quality of data used to support member services.
Council also discussed member feedback on response times for applications, specialist portfolios and training approval. While reported turnaround times remain within agreed targets, Council recognised the need for clearer communication so members know what to expect at each stage.
Online joining for e-student members is currently being tested with a user group before being rolled out more widely. Other membership grades should continue to use the standard application forms while further online joining options are developed.
Education and professional standards
Council noted continued progress across education and professional standards, including eight accreditation reports completed between January and April, two equivalent route candidates progressed, and two new IBMS representatives appointed to external committees.
The Education and Professional Standards Committee also reviewed several HCPC updates, including standards of education and training, international routes to registration, CPD, fitness to practise sanctions, AI use in education and advanced levels of practice.
Work on IBMS top-up modules is continuing. LearnSci Smart Worksheets across the six clinical specialisms are due to be completed in the second quarter of 2026, with further work needed before launch.
Council also noted the successful move of Certificate of Expert Practice courses onto Moodle.
Laboratory training approval
Council agreed in principle to strengthen the laboratory training approval process by asking employers to confirm support for staff to undertake IBMS verifier and examiner roles.
The aim is to increase verifier and examiner capacity, support timely assessment, and ensure approved training laboratories contribute to the wider education and training system.
Council agreed that further work is needed on how the change will apply across trusts, health boards, networks and different specialties. A transition period with clear communication with approved laboratories will be used before any new requirements are introduced.
Membership and engagement
Council received an update from the Membership and Marketing Committee on plans for a 2026 member engagement survey.
The survey will focus on the value members place on IBMS membership, member retention, and the reasons why some members do not renew.
Council also discussed early proposals for digital membership cards. These will be explored further, including how they could support sustainability, improve accessibility and provide professional digital credentials for members.
Practice educator discussion group
Council noted a proposal to bring a practice educator discussion group into the IBMS structure.
The group would provide a clearer route for engagement with members who work directly with students, trainees and the wider workforce.
Further work will take place to ensure the group reflects all four nations and has the right level of input from across the profession. The committee was not quorate, meaning the final decision has not yet been made.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
Council received an update from the EDI working group, including a review of membership, revised terms of reference and plans for an annual EDI newsletter.
Council also discussed how EDI workshops could be made more accessible to members. Future sessions may be delivered through branches and regions to reduce travel costs and support local engagement.
Research and evidence
Council noted ongoing work by the Strategic Research Group on the role of biomedical science in maternity care.
The group is focusing on routine testing in the maternity care pathway and is working with Oxera, which previously supported IBMS research on bowel cancer.
Finance and governance
Council approved the 2025 financial statements and group financial statements.
The IBMS remains in a strong financial position, with reserves available to support strategic projects, including work linked to the Institute’s wider strategy.
Council also reviewed the investment portfolio and noted that its long-term performance remains within agreed targets.
Workforce resilience and advanced practice
Council heard that IBMS engagement has influenced national pandemic preparedness work, including issues raised by members following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Further work with UKHSA will focus on workforce resilience.
Council also noted continued engagement on advanced practice, including work to support the recognition, scope and responsibilities of consultant-level biomedical scientists.
Council will continue to monitor progress across these areas and ensure that members are represented in decisions affecting education, training, patient care and the future of biomedical science.
Date of next meeting
Friday 12th June
