Sunday 1st December – In a significant development for Physician Associates, and other Medical Associate Professions (MAPs) in the United Kingdom, a group of founding members gathered to formally establish a trade union dedicated to their needs.
At an Extraordinary General Meeting held on Sunday, 1st December 2024, Founding Members voted to adopt the UMAPs Trade Union Rule Book, approve interim National Executive Committee (NEC) appointments, and authorise the union’s registration with the Certification Officer.
This historic event marks a major step towards achieving full union status and amplifying the collective voice of PAs, AAs, and SCPs within the healthcare system.
The newly formed union, currently known as the United Medical Associate Professionals (UMAPs), aims to provide professional advocacy. It seeks to create an environment where all MAPs feel valued, supported, and empowered in their workplaces. This initiative signifies a crucial step towards achieving greater equity, recognition, and a brighter future for the entire MAPs field.
“This is a momentous occasion for Medical Associate Professionals across the UK,” said Stephen Nash, UMAPs General Secretary. “The formation of this union allows us to have a stronger, more unified voice in advocating for our roles and ensuring we can continue to provide optimal patient care.”
Significance of the Movement:
The emergence of a dedicated MAPs union reflects a growing desire for greater representation. Given a period of great uncertainity and difficulty for the PA profession particuraly, with an increasing number of MAPs being made redundant in the NHS, the UMAPs union aims to play a crucial role in supporting the workforce. UMAPs says having a ‘unified voice can be instrumental in ensuring fair compensation, safe working conditions, and professional development opportunities’.
Key Milestones Achieved:
- Adoption of the UMAPs Trade Union Rule Book
- Approval of NEC interim appointments
- Authorisation to register UMAPs as an official trade union
This development comes amidst ongoing discussions surrounding the scope of practice for MAPs. UMAPs aims to provide a platform for MAPs to participate in these discussions and advocate for a future where their skills and expertise are fully utilised within the healthcare system.
The formation of the UMAPs union holds the potential to create a significant impact on the working lives of Medical Associate Professionals in the UK. With a united front, MAPs can navigate challenges, advocate for their interests, and ultimately contribute to a more efficient and effective healthcare system for all.
The union invites interested MAPs to join their movement and contribute to building a stronger future for the profession. Additionally, UMAPs is currently fundraising to support critical legal initiatives that will further advance the standing of MAPs in the UK healthcare system.