The British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM) has enlisted the help of the world’s first mindfulness policy institute to launch its 20th ANNIVERSARY MINDFULNESS AND WELLBEING INITIATIVE, offering support and advice to members during the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic.

BCAM President Dr Uliana Gout said: “BCAM led the way in 2020 with its ‘fact not opinion’ guidance for members about opening clinics and treating patients, and now we’re taking the lead again with this new wellbeing initiative in the College’s 20th anniversary year.

“We’re delighted to be working with the world’s foremost organisation, The Mindfulness Initiative, that advises global legislators on how to incorporate mindfulness in public policy. We are spearheading the aesthetic medicine sector with the BCAM 20th Anniversary Mindfulness and Wellbeing Initiative and are committed to providing the best support to members, both with practical business advice and holistic guidance that is so pertinent at this time.”

The Mindfulness Initiative is an independent think tank and clerk to the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Mindfulness. Its Deputy Director Ruth Ormston will deliver a members-only session for BCAM next month, exploring the benefits of mindfulness and offering tips on incorporating it into the day to improve health and mental wellbeing. Ruth will also lead a short mindfulness practice for members so they can experience it first-hand.

BCAM plans to cover a wide range of wellbeing issues with the BCAM 20th Anniversary Mindfulness and Wellbeing Initiative. As well as live Zoom sessions and videos uploaded to the members area of the BCAM website, the College will signpost useful resources and share tips from fellow members. Many of these resources have been provided free of charge by The Mindfulness Initiative, including specific help for people staying home during lockdown.

BCAM trustee Dr Bhavjit Kaur is leading on the new initiative on behalf of the College and hopes it will offer support, guidance and comfort to members who are facing challenges during the pandemic.

She said: “It’s been a tough time for everyone since the first lockdown last March. Many of our members have returned to the NHS frontline or are facing issues with their businesses or personal lives.

“BCAM recognises the need to support members in many different ways and I am passionate about wellbeing and mindfulness so I wanted to provide some practical help that members can easily access.

“As healthcare professionals, we always want to understand the science behind everything so being able to offer members a session with the world’s leading mindfulness organisation will provide a fantastic springboard for members to further explore for themselves.”

The mindfulness session for BCAM members will be delivered by Zoom on Friday 5 March. For more information about joining BCAM, please email Helen.Calkin@BCAM.ac.uk