On Tuesday 8 July, BCA members gathered at Manchester's iconic King Street Townhouse for an evening filled with engaging conversation, fantastic food, and countless memorable moments. It was a great opportunity for attendees to catch up on the latest developments in their association and connect with fellow professionals in a vibrant setting.
From insightful updates and a brilliant member spotlight talk to thoughtful conversations with a stunning skyline view, this wasn’t a typical Tuesday night - it honoured our legacy, our progress, and the bright future ahead for chiropractic in the UK.
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Reflecting on the Past, Present and Future
BCA President, Tim Button, kicked off the evening by taking attendees on a journey through the BCA's remarkable 100-year history. He began with its founding in 1925, highlighted pivotal moments such as the passing of the Chiropractors Act in 1994, and brought us to the present day's achievements that continue to shape the chiropractic profession.
Tim then shared the latest on the BCA's ambitious strategic initiatives. He spoke about this year's landmark Health Economics Report, which revealed that chiropractic could provide an astounding £400 million annual boost to the UK economy. He also touched on the BCA's ongoing political engagement, citing activities like meetings with Members of Parliament, attendance at party conferences, a Westminster roundtable, and an open letter sent to the Health Secretary. All these efforts, he emphasised, underscore the BCA’s unwavering commitment to ensuring chiropractic is recognised as an essential component of musculoskeletal (MSK) care.
A Chiropractic Career Forged by Experience
Following Tim’s update, members were privileged to hear from Jeff Shurr, a longstanding BCA member since 1989. Reflecting on a life-long passion, Jeff shared how a personal accident and subsequent chiropractic care inspired him to become a chiropractor and move to the UK to practice. He discussed the significant changes and enduring principles within the profession since his early career, noting the BCA's consistent advocacy for chiropractors and their vital role in UK healthcare. We thank Jeff for sharing his experience.
Celebrating Long-Standing Members
The evening offered a meaningful moment to honour seven outstanding members who have dedicated decades to the profession. Their work, values, and commitment to patient care have helped shape chiropractic in the UK.
Award Recipients:
Julia Waring
Graduate of Anglo European College of Chiropractic and a BCA member since 1994, Julia worked in Lichfield for many years, before her retirement in 2022.
Helen Nunn
Graduate of Anglo European College of Chiropractic and a BCA member since July 1991. Helen started her career in Worcester, before setting up the Hereford Chiropractic Clinic in 1992. Helen is proud of the fact that most patients are recommended by their friends and colleagues, who have benefited from Chiropractic care. Once treatment has been completed, Helen believes that people should take responsibility for their own health with exercise. She looks after her own spine with a combination of yoga, pilates, and gym work to strengthen her spine and maintain flexibility.
Lorraine Calland
Graduate of AECC University College (now Health Sciences University) and a BCA member since July 1995. Having worked in a number of different locations, Lorraine now runs a clinic in Northwich, Cheshire.
Doug Clark
Graduate of AECC University College (now Health Sciences University) and a BCA member since September 1995. Past President of the British Chiropractic Sports Council, he has divided his time between private practise and sports injury treatment at various clubs and institutions.
Brian Hammond
Graduate of AECC University College (now Health Sciences University) and a BCA member since 1975. Brian is both a chiropractor and a qualified osteopath, as well as gaining a PhD for his research into the prevention of low back pain. He is the Executive Chair of the charity, BackCare. As well as having held positions within the BCA, he is also a Fellow of the BCA. He was editor of the European Journal of Chiropractic, a member of the Executive of the European Chiropractors’ Union and a founding member of the European Council on Chiropractic Education. He founded his clinic in Sutton 50 years ago, which now has a branch practice in Crawley. Brian is retiring after 50 years in the profession this month.
Scott Middleton
Graduate of AECC University College (now Health Sciences University) and a BCA member since October 1977, Scott has seen over 100,000 patients in his time in practise. He has lectured in the UK and internationally. He has developed well-established networks with local orthopaedic consultants, neurosurgeons, GPs and physiotherapists. Scott is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine, Fellow of the Royal College of Chiropractors and Fellow of the BCA.
Jeff Shurr
Graduate of the Los Angeles College of Chiropractic and a BCA member since July 1989. A Fellow of the Royal College of Chiropractors, Jeff has served as a Regional Clinic Tutor, a CPD development tutor and clinic trainer.
Congratulations to all of our award recipients! Your work continues to inspire us and elevate the standard of care across our profession.
A Celebration with a View
With exclusive access to the South Terrace and a bar remaining open until midnight, the evening flowed effortlessly as members mingled, soaking in the sophisticated rooftop ambiance. The atmosphere was buzzing with energy with lively conversation complementing the breathtaking views. The event truly honoured 100 years of the BCA's legacy, leaving attendees with fond memories of a truly exceptional celebration.
Share your moments with us!
Members can share their moments from the event via the form in our BCA 100 Online Exhibition.
As we continue celebrating 100 years of the BCA, our regional events are a powerful reminder that this profession is built not just on clinical expertise, but on connection, community and purpose. We can’t wait to see you our our next event.
Next stop: Cardiff. Join us as we continue the BCA100 journey across the UK.