Poole chamber closes its doors
THE DIVER CLINIC DIVING AND Hyperbaric Medicine Unit based in Poole , Dorset has permanently closed to patients .
The unit ’ s decision to close on 31 January had been made on a mutually agreed basis with the NHS . The Diver Clinic was originally started to service the central English Channel region and has provided a 24 / 7 / 365 emergency recompression service for divers in Poole since 1992 .
However , due to the “ convergence of multiple commercial , contractual , and operational factors that cannot be met within the scope of the NHS contract ”, the clinic said it was no longer viable to operate recompression facilities in Poole .
“ Hyperbaric chambers provide an important service to scuba divers , so it is vital that NHS recompression facilities are properly funded ,” said Sophie Heptonstall , BSAC Head of Diving and Training , in response to the closure news .
“ BSAC urges all dive managers , particularly those diving in remote locations , to review any Emergency Action Plans as part of dive planning , should the worst ever happen .”
The Diver Clinic has thanked the dedicated team who have delivered the service in Poole , as well as the emergency services , maritime search and rescue , and medical support organisations who have all worked closely with them to save many lives over the last three decades .
Any treatment enquiries received by the Diver Clinic will be returned to the referrer and provided with contact details of alternative facilities , as approved by the NHS .
Meet BSAC at Go Diving
BSAC WILL HAVE AN ACTION-PACKED presence at this year ’ s Go Diving Show ( 1-2 March , NAEC Stoneleigh Park , Coventry ), with workshops , awards and exciting new initiatives launching at the show .
There will be a series of workshops over the weekend , offering members and clubs the chance to learn and network at the show . These will cover a variety of topics , including diver safety advice , strategies for club growth , snorkelling and instructor training developments and new launches [ see breakout box for full list ].
Also at the show , BSAC will be launching its work with Motion for the Ocean , a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower our community of clubs , training centres and members to actively support local councils in making changes for the benefit of the underwater environment . ( see page 11 for the full Motion for the Ocean story ). Visitors to the stand will also be able to engage with our Save Our Seas pledge wall , where they can show their commitment to protecting our oceans .
The BSAC team will be there throughout the weekend , ready to chat with members on stand 54 , next to the main stage . You can meet CEO Mary Tetley ; Head of Diving and Training Sophie Heptonstall and Vice Chair Yasmine Thorn , as well as the membership and diver support team . Designated time slots will be advertised to help members connect with the right people .
BSAC will also be honouring the incredible achievements of our members on the UK stage at 12:45pm on Saturday , including presenting the Expeditions Trophy and the Instructor Awards .
More on BSAC at the Go Diving Show , including how to sign up to the workshops and ‘ meet the team ’ slots , at bsac . com / GDS2025
BSAC Workshops at the show
■ Motion for the Ocean – what ’ s it all about ?
■ Safety skills refresh - Automated external defibrillator ( AED ) and Basic Life Support ( BLS )
■ Keeping divers safe - Practical advice for clubs and divers
■ Grow your club with BSAC snorkelling
■ Secrets of success - Practical tips from a thriving club
■ Instructor Trainer workshop – Latest developments
To sign up and for more info on the workshops , scan the QR code or go to bsac . com / GDS2025
Get your Go Diving Show ticket
There ’ s still time to get your tickets for UK ’ s only annual consumer diving event , the Go Diving Show .
From youngsters and new-to-scuba enthusiasts to seasoned pros , the Go Diving Show promises something for everyone . As well as the speaker stage , trade , training and holiday exhibitors , there ’ ll also be a host of taster sessions , try dives and workshops to keep you entertained .
Tickets can be bought online and cost £ 17.50 for a day ticket , or £ 25 for a weekend pass if bought by 1 March . Buy on the door day ticket will cost £ 25 . Under 16s get in free .
For more information and to buy your tickets , go to www . godivingshow . com
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