Reflecting on achievements and looking towards a positive future

Happy new year! It seems that 2022 crept in without too much pomp and ceremony. As I write the first British Association of Cosmetic Nurses (BACN) column of the year for the Journal of Aesthetic Nursing (JAN), it has given me the opportunity to reflect on the past year, in particular, the achievements that have been made, both collectively and individually.

COVID-19 is still with us and will remain so for some time to come, but, first, a huge pat on the back is due to everyone who has managed to survive in business this past 2 years. I say this with a tinge of sadness for all of those who decided to call it a day or just could not sustain their businesses.

Yet again, I am amazed at the level of resilience and determination that is shown by nurses, and I applaud BACN members who, despite being unable to work in their own businesses due to lockdown, balanced keeping them afloat and supporting their patients while stepping back into the NHS or other sectors to help wherever needed. Following a recent poll carried out among BACN members, I know that a staggering 95% of BACN members contributed and continue to do so during the pandemic. Breaking down the poll, 47 % worked in the vaccination programme; 36% returned to the NHS or other full-time positions; 12% worked elsewhere (either privately or supporting NHS Track and Trace); and 5% had to shield or were unable to return to the NHS or other sectors.