MEMBER Q&A Member’s Question Time

Mike O’Donoghue (aka Taff) writes: “Having been involved in the Council since its inaugural

meeting in early 2007, it’s great to have an

opportunity to explain to the

members the reasoning

behind why it exists and exactly what we do.

“I feel that one of the reasons for REPs success is that it is a regulatory body that is fair and transparent. In the early days it was decided that members should be involved in decision making processes at all levels. The first meeting was somewhat ad hoc and tagged onto the end of the annual convention in London in February 2007 but it was clear we needed a more members.

“We now meet three times a year and discussions are very much designed to discover the views of the membership and for these to bring some influence to the running and policies of the Register. For example, in the last few years, we have been involved in dialogue surrounding: the new REPs structure; CPD requirements; publicity and marketing campaigns, and the new

In this issue we’ve asked the REPs Members Council to outline what the Council does and the role it plays within the Register. If you have any views on this subject or would like to become involved please get in touch by emailing memberscouncil@exerciseregister.org

on-line training guidelines.

“We currently have representatives from most regions of the UK and the Council has the benefit of most of the skill sets that the Register accommodates, from gym instructor to cardiac rehab specialist and aqua aerobics instructor to personal trainer.

“Council members also represent the membership at other fitness industry forums including Skills Active’s Technical Expertise Group (the body responsible for writing the new National Occupational Standards), the Sport And Fitness Employers Group and the REPs Board of Governors meetings. I also attend the Joint Consultative Forum (six representatives from the fitness sector and six from the Royal Medial Colleges) that aims to build

bridges with the medical professions and boost exercise referrals.

“You can learn more about the Council via our section on the REPs website, or feel free to come and speak to us at the REPs conventions (a few of us generally attend each one). Remember, it’s our job to take your views forward so let us know what’s on your mind!”

A former serviceman Taff has worked in fitness for 12 years as a group exercise instructor, teaching mostly Cardiac Rehab, Aerobics and Aqua. Living in South Wales, when not working he can be found tending his allotment or running with his dog in the beautiful countryside. Taff also organises Wales’ own Pink Aerobics to raise funds for the Breast Cancer Campaign.

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The REPs Journal 2010;18(September):12

The REPS Journal 2009;00(Month):00-00

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