Our first board meeting of the year is always a packed one, and this March was no exception. The spring meeting traditionally includes reviewing and signing off the annual operating budget for the financial year ahead, along with a range of strategic discussions to set the focus for the months to come.
This time was no different, and we are pleased to share some of the key highlights with you.
Setting the Direction: Budget and Business Plan
A major agenda item was the 2026–27 operating budget. Before reaching the board, the budget had already been examined in detail by our Finance, Risk and Audit Committee (FRAC), who are responsible for scrutinising the numbers and ensuring that BACP’s funds are used responsibly, transparently, and in line with our charitable purpose.
The board then had the opportunity to review the proposal, ask questions of the executive team, and ultimately approve the final version. Trustees were particularly pleased to see that the business plan and associated budget include strong commitments to improving member engagement, creating greater opportunities for members to help shape the future direction of BACP.
Deepening Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)
Our EDI team led a fantastic session with the board, focusing on the progress made over the last couple of years to increase understanding and embed inclusion across BACP. Trustees took part in an interactive workshop on allyship, helping shape the next phase of our EDI strategy by bringing their experience as practitioners directly into the conversation.
Members will see and hear much more about EDI, and its broadening in focus to Diversity, Equality, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) the coming months, as we continue ensuring it becomes part of the everyday fabric of the association and influences how we support the profession, our members, and our staff.
Chair Recruitment: A Collective Approach
The board also discussed the recruitment of a new Chair. Trustees were clear that appointing the right person is critical, and that it is important not to rush the process. They want to ensure the next Chair brings the skills, capability, and experience needed to support strong governance and lead the board effectively.
In the meantime, trustees agreed to continue operating as a collective, with existing board members taking on chairing responsibilities a rotational basis. This includes chairing board meetings and working closely with the executive team to ensure momentum continues on the leadership and governance improvements already underway.
Your Voice, Your BACP: Strengthening Member Engagement
The board were pleased to receive an update on the Your Voice, Your BACP engagement programme, launched at the 2025 AGM. The programme gives members a range of ways to share their views, tell us what matters, and shape the future of the association and the profession.
Many members have already taken part, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who has contributed so far. Trustees strongly encourage all members to get involved, as your perspectives are essential to the future direction of BACP and the wider sector.
Positive News from the Charity Commission
Trustees were also pleased to receive a letter from the Charity Commission following the conclusion of their investigations and compliance case. The commission has confirmed that they are confident in how BACP is now being governed and that no issues remain outstanding.
This is an important and positive milestone for the association, and the board expressed their appreciation to everyone involved in supporting this work.
Members can read our full statement here.
Looking Forward: Ideas and Ambitions
In addition to providing oversight of current work, trustees also spent time considering future opportunities. The board discussed a number of ideas and aspirations that the executive team will now begin exploring further.
One idea trustees were especially enthusiastic about was a renewed focus on becoming more regionally and community connected in parts of our work. There will be more information to share on this as thinking develops, but early discussions were positive and energising.
Closing Thoughts
A busy first meeting of the year has set the stage for a focused and ambitious 2026. From strengthening governance and supporting inclusion to deepening engagement with members and exploring new ways to connect locally, there is plenty to look forward to.
Thank you to all our members for your continued support, insight, and involvement. We look forward to sharing more updates with you throughout the year.
