In his spring update Edward Haynes, Chair of BSAC reflects on the year so far and looks ahead to an exciting summer of diving.
As the days grow longer and the busier dive season kicks into gear, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the year so far and look ahead to an exciting summer of diving.
The first quarter of 2025: Progress, challenges and celebration
We started the year on a high, with BSAC member Emily Cunningham being awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours List — a fantastic recognition of her dedication and impact. However, we also faced challenges, including the disappointing news that the Poole hyperbaric chamber is set to close due to NHS funding cuts. On a more positive note, January also saw BSAC formally recognised by the Welsh Sports Association as the representative body for divers and snorkellers in Wales — a significant step in strengthening our influence and support for divers across the UK.
We were deeply saddened by the loss of Helen Hadley, assistant skipper of the Orkney liveaboard MV Valhalla. Helen was a hugely respected figure in the Scapa Flow diving scene, known for her warmth, humour and incredible generosity. She will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
On the leadership front, we’ve welcomed three new Regional Coaches: David George (South West), James Soos (Eastern) and Nick Sims (South East). Their passion and experience will be invaluable in supporting BSAC members and clubs.
One of our biggest milestones so far has been the launch of BSAC’s new five-year strategy, which sets our course through to 2029. A huge thank you to Yasmine Thorn, the Strategy Group, HQ staff and all the members who shared their thoughts in our workshop forums. Key areas we’re focusing on include:
- Putting the environment at the heart of everything we do, as showcased at the recent Go Diving Show.
- Opening up key volunteer roles - such as the Environment and Sustainability Committee Chair - to ensure we get the best expertise.
- Greater focus on snorkelling activities to welcome even more people into the water.
Speaking of the Go Diving Show, it was a brilliant event where members connected with HQ staff, Council members and fellow divers and snorkellers. Sadly, I had to miss it — though I was busy exploring the waters of Oman! Meanwhile, the Menai Boat Run 2025 brought more fantastic moments on the water.
We’ve also made some key appointments, Helen Morris is now chairing the Audit Committee and Katherine Knight is leading the newly formed Environment and Sustainability Group — a crucial group as we ramp up efforts to protect our waters.
Motion for the Ocean and Clean Water Sports Alliance
One of the most exciting movements of 2025 so far has been BSAC’s involvement in the Motion for the Ocean campaign. Launched at the Dive Show, this initiative empowers clubs and members to advocate for cleaner, healthier UK waters by working with local councils to push for stronger environmental commitments. We’ve already seen encouraging engagement from the community, and we’ll be tracking progress as more councils pass the motion. If you haven’t yet, check out how members, clubs and training centres can get involved.
In parallel, we continue our work with the Clean Water Sports Alliance, standing alongside other water sports National Governing Bodies to campaign for cleaner UK rivers and seas. The fight for better water quality is gaining momentum, and as divers and snorkellers, we have a unique voice in this conversation.
What’s ahead?
Exciting changes are coming with the launch of the new MyBSAC platform later this year. This will be a big step forward in modernising BSAC’s systems and improving the member experience.
MyBSAC will make managing your memberships easier than ever, with digital membership cards, streamlined joining/renewals and the ability to upload medicals and qualifications directly into the system. The all-new BSAC shop will also offer a smoother experience for purchasing training packs, eLearning courses and more. Clubs and centres will benefit from improved management tools including payments and communications. When the time comes, there will be dedicated online workshops for members, instructors, club officers and commercial centre owners to introduce the MyBSAC platform to get you started.
We love a special offer!
For those in need of new kit, remember the Scubapro equipment offer — 40% off until September.
Summer diving awaits
Most importantly, the summer diving season is just around the corner! Whether you’re planning club trips, training new divers or exploring new sites, there’s so much to look forward to. The UK’s waters are teeming with incredible experiences, and BSAC is here to help you make the most of them.
Keep in touch
Finally, a reminder that BSAC Council elections take place in May. Your vote matters — get involved and help shape the future of your diving community.
If you have any ideas or feedback on BSAC, feel free to get in touch — we’d love to hear from you. Please email me at chair@bsac.com
Dive safe — hope to see you out there!
Edward
BSAC Chair
