Reflections from Professor Matt Phillips in his final President’s Blog

14 January 2026 (Last updated: 16 Jan 2026 10:36)

As we move into a new year, we also open a new chapter for BASHH. January often brings with it a sense of renewal, but for me this moment feels especially significant as it marks the end of my two-year tenure as President. I’m not sure where the time has gone, however, it has unquestionably been the biggest privilege to serve our community during a period of challenge, growth, and shared purpose. I find myself reflecting not on endings, but on what has been built together and what now lies ahead.

Looking Back and Building Forward

Over the past two years, BASHH has continued to evolve into a stronger, more connected, and increasingly influential organisation. At the heart of this progress has been the development of our internal team, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to support our members and ensure BASHH remains responsive and forward‑looking. I want to express my sincere gratitude to Kat Smithson, our CEO, whose leadership has strengthened BASHH at every level. My thanks also go to our wider internal team – Daron Oram, Kate Griffin, and Andie Dyer – each of whom has brought skill, energy, and new ideas to shape our collective success.

Externally, our relationships have grown deeper and more collaborative. Our partnerships across the third sector, with Royal Colleges and with organisations from BHIVA to the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and the Institute of Biomedical Science are stronger than ever. These relationships are not symbolic; they are the foundation upon which impactful national strategies and real-world service improvements are built. I am truly proud of the trust, respect, and shared intent that characterise our engagement with these partners.

It's in this spirit that I want to remind everyone about the BASHH x BHIVA Joint Conference 2026. Bringing the two foremost clinical societies in HIV and sexual health together is the perfect opportunity to showcase your work. I want to remind you that there are only a few days remaining to submit an abstract for poster and oral presentation, closing at 8am on Monday 19th January. I encourage you all, if you haven’t already, to get involved and learn more via our website.

Why not also get your tickets for the Joint Conference now? Take advantage of early bird rates until Monday 23 March and join us in Liverpool to share and digest the latest research and updates on clinical management and prevention in HIV and sexual health. Book your place by visiting the BHIVA website – where you can also have a sneak peek at the brilliant event programme!

A Growing Workforce and a Mandate for Action

Across the specialty, recruitment continues to move from strength to strength – something many of us feared might not be the case just a few years ago. The enthusiasm from trainees and early‑career clinicians gives me great hope for the future of GUM and sexual health. We are now seeing the long-term benefits of committed promotional work such as LoveGUM, and the energy of a new generation entering our field is palpable.

The publication of the HIV Action Plan has given us a clear mandate for workforce development, and I am encouraged that BASHH’s expertise is not only recognised but actively sought. The commitments to improve understanding of workforce needs and to continue rolling out the STI Foundation create real opportunities for meaningful progress across sexual health services.

Similarly, a letter published this month from Ashley Dalton MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Public Health and Prevention, signals an important moment affecting populations that many of us serve: a commitment to a new national sexual and reproductive health framework for England. This is critical work – work that will help to coordinate strategies across the system, reduce duplication, and tackle persistent inequalities. It is exactly the sort of joined‑up thinking we have long advocated, and I am proud that BASHH was both a central voice in calling for it, and is well-positioned to shape its subsequent development.

My Personal Highlight

For me personally, the greatest highlight of these two years has been the chance to connect more deeply with colleagues across our membership – clinicians, nurses, scientists, trainees, third‑sector partners, and so many others. The generosity of spirit within this community is extraordinary. Every conversation, every meeting, every email exchange has reminded me how many people across the UK work tirelessly – often under difficult conditions – to ensure that sexual health and HIV services remain compassionate, evidence-based, and equitable. I look forward to continuing these connections for many years to come, albeit in a different role.

The Next Chapter

Finally, I want to offer my heartfelt thanks for the support, encouragement, and camaraderie shown to me throughout my presidency. It has meant more than I can say. As I now step aside, I ask that you lend that same support to Dr Cara Saxon, who will be leading BASHH into its next chapter from Friday 23 January. Cara brings wisdom, clarity, and an unwavering commitment to our specialty; I know BASHH will thrive under her leadership.

You can continue to reach out via president@bashh.net – but from now on, it will be Cara who picks up your messages.

With warmest wishes for the year ahead,

Matt